Monday 2 May 2016

Why did the Ghost of Christmas Present help Scrooge out?

All three of the spirits present warnings to Scrooge.  They help him because he needs to change his ways, for both his own sake and that of the world around him.  The Ghost of Christmas Present seeks to elicit change in Scrooge by presenting contemporary scenes of charitable behavior, which conflict with Scrooge's mindset/worldview.  From the moment of their first meeting, the ghost tries to help Scrooge by setting an example for him to learn...

All three of the spirits present warnings to Scrooge.  They help him because he needs to change his ways, for both his own sake and that of the world around him.  The Ghost of Christmas Present seeks to elicit change in Scrooge by presenting contemporary scenes of charitable behavior, which conflict with Scrooge's mindset/worldview.  From the moment of their first meeting, the ghost tries to help Scrooge by setting an example for him to learn from.
In order to meet the spirit, Scrooge must first enter into the room where it resides.  This room is one of Scrooge's own rooms, but in the night has been transformed to place of warmth and charity.  Garlands adorn the walls, piles of food are heaped up on the floor, and light fills the room.  As Scrooge looks in, the ghost greets him by saying "Come in!  and know me better, man!"  This initial scene works is in direct contrast to the coldness of Scrooge's counting house, as well as to Scrooge's standoffish, cold way of "greeting" those who appeared at his own door in Stave One. 


The ghost presents Scrooge with many examples of kindness currently taking place, giving Scrooge more food for thought in the process.  Scrooge is taken to the Cratchit's humble abode, and gazes in wonder as the family, despite having little food or finances, is able to joyously celebrate because they have one another.  He is taken to view the party at the home of his nephew, Fred, at which time Scrooge becomes interested in the fun and merriment and wishes to be involved.  He is also taken to various, harsher scenes such as mines, a ship at sea, and even a solitary lighthouse and in each location the characters are happy despite their dire conditions, simply because it's Christmas and because they are with one another.  Each of the scenes is an attempt to help Scrooge understand the true nature of Christmas, and the true duty of humanity.  Further, Scrooge's growing interest in each scene helps to illuminate the true nature of Scrooge himself.  Deep down, he contains the potential for good; the Ghost of Christmas Present helps him by showing him those he could potentially be good to.

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