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| Charles Dickens |
Dickens' story is one of rags to riches. He was born in Portsmouth on 7 February 1812, to John and Elizabeth Dickens. The good fortune of being sent to school at the age of nine was short-lived because his father was imprisoned for bad debt. The entire family, apart from Charles, were sent to a workhouse and Charles was sent to work in Warren's blacking factory and endured appalling conditions as well as loneliness and despair. After three years he was returned to school, but the experience was never forgotten.
Because of his early years, Dickens was highly sensitive to the misery and poverty that surrounded him. He was determined to make a difference.
Dickens began his literary career as a journalist. As his popularity as a writer increased, his newspaper editor allowed him to publish serialized stories in each edition of the paper. These stories, full of captivating characters and exciting events, caught the attention of the nouveau-riche in England creating awareness of the horrible conditions under which the poor of England lived. Dickens' writing helped set the stage for change.
A Christmas Carol is one of Dickens' most beloved and best known tales. As we watch this film, consider the following things:
- Under what kind of conditions do the people in this film live - all people, not just the poor? Consider: Scrooge, the scrap collectors, the Cratchetts, nephew Freddy, Alice, the Fezziwhigs, Mrs. Dilber, etc.
- Were there any attempts at making life better for the less fortunate? If yes, give examples.
- How do the conditions in the Victorian era compare to now?
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