Let’s explore A Christmas Carol by Dickens. It’s one of the writer’s most famous stories.
In this post, you’ll learn about its history, key ideas, and why it’s still loved today. Whether you’re a fan of classic tales or want to improve your English, this is for you.
Let’s jump into the world of Scrooge and see what makes this story so special!
Questions and Answers
When did Dickens write A Christmas Carol?
In 1843.
Why did he write it?
He wrote it because he wanted to draw everyone’s attention to the problems of England’s poor people. He uses the story to show the importance of generosity and kindness, at Christmas and all year.
Who is the main character?
Ebenezer Scrooge. He has no family or friends. He treats people badly. He only cares about money is has a cold heart.
What happens in the story?
Scrooge learns the importance of being kind. Three ghosts visit him on Christmas Eve and try to teach him to be a better man:
- The Ghost of Christmas Past shows him his previous Christmases.
- The Ghost of Christmas Present shows him how people are celebrating right now.
- The Ghost of Christmas Future shows him what will happen if he doesn’t change!
Is it funny?
Yes, there are lots of funny parts. It’s also emotional and magical.
Characters
Dickens was an expert at creating fantastic characters that you will remember forever. Here are the most important characters from his Christmas story.
Can you read the story in English?
If you have a very high level, you can read the story in the original. Here is an extract from the book. Do you understand everything?
ORIGINAL VERSION
“Not a latent echo in the house, not a squeak and scuffle from the mice behind the panelling, not a sigh among the leafless boughs of one despondent poplar, but fell upon the heart of Scrooge with softening influence, and gave a freer passage to his tears.”
ADAPTATION IN EASIER ENGLISH
“There were mice in the walls and Scrooge heard them moving. There were trees outside, blowing in the wind, and Scrooge heard them although the branches were without leaves. Scrooge heard all these soft sounds and they touched his heart and made him cry even more.”
Why should you read it?
Here are 5 reasons why you should read this story!
1. It’s a cultural treasure.
A Christmas Carol has changed the way people celebrate Christmas in the UK (find out more about this below). By reading it, you’ll learn about British traditions and values.
2. It’s a story of hope and change.
In these dark times, we need some light. This story will give it to you! Scrooge is a selfish man but he changes into a kind one. Follow his amazing journey.
3. It’s full of useful vocabulary.
Reading this book will teach you everyday English words and phrases, as well as festive vocabulary you can use during the Christmas season. (Do you want to learn Christmas vocabulary now? Click here!)
4. It introduces you to some fantastic characters.
You will never forget the characters you meet in this book. Scrooge himself, Tiny Tim and the Ghosts of Christmas … and more! Dickens is famous for his ability to create brilliant characters.
5. It’s short and easy to follow.
My version is written in easier English and it’s shorter than the original. Practise your English while enjoying a magical Christmas story.
The influence of the story on British culture
When Charles Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol in 1843, he didn’t just tell a story – he helped change how Christmas was celebrated!
Christmas used to be boring!
Before this book, Christmas was a smaller, quieter holiday. But Dickens’s story brought new energy to the season, focusing on family, generosity and good fun.
Helping the poor
The idea of giving to the poor became more popular thanks to the book’s message.
New traditions!
The story also inspired traditions we still love today. Traditions such as sharing a big Christmas meal, giving gifts, and spending time with family became more popular, partly because of the vivid scenes Dickens described in A Christmas Carol.
Even singing carols (Christmas songs) and decorating homes with plants were boosted by his story.
The story changed the English language
The book also influenced language. The phrase “Merry Christmas” was made popular by Dickens, and we call someone a “Scrooge” for being stingy or unkind, which comes from the name of the main character in the book.
Thanks to Dickens, Christmas in Britain became a time for community, warmth and celebration – a legacy that continues to this day!
5 interesting facts
Don’t miss these interesting facts about this famous Christmas story by Dickens.
1. It was written in just six weeks.
Charles Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol at lightning speed in late 1843 because he needed money. He finished the story in time for publication just before Christmas.
2. It was an instant hit.
When A Christmas Carol was published, it sold out in just five days (=all the copies were sold)! It quickly became one of Dickens’s most popular works and remains a holiday favourite today.
3. Dickens funded the first edition himself.
Dickens didn’t like the terms offered by his publisher, so he paid for the first edition to be printed. He insisted on a beautifully designed book with gold lettering and illustrations.
4. It inspired acts of charity.
Many readers were moved by the story’s message of kindness and giving. After its publication, people started giving more to charities, especially at Christmas.
5. Dickens took inspiration from his own childhood.
Dickens’s own difficult childhood influenced the story. His time working in a factory and seeing the struggles of the poor helped to form the book’s themes of poverty and generosity.
Read A Christmas Carol
If you want to enjoy A Christmas Carol in simple English, check out my version.
It has grammar and vocabulary at the perfect level for intermediate students (CEFR B1). Click below for more details and to buy this easy English Christmas story.
Take the quiz!
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