A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol is a novella written by Charles Dickens published in 1843. It is one of Dickens’ most popular works. The book is about Ebenezer Scrooge, a miser businessman and his engagement with several ghosts during the Christmas time.

Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by his erstwhile partner-Jacob Marley’s ghost in chains on the Christmas eve. The phantom warns him about his wrongdoings and informs that he will be visited by three ghosts. Later the three spirits- Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future visits him and takes him though his life and places. Scrooge becomes a changed person filled with remorse and corrects his mistakes.

Bob Crachit-Scrooge’s clerk, Tiny Tim- Bob’s son and Scrooge’s nephew are a few famous characters from the story. The childish nature of narration used in the story appeals to all age-groups alike.

The story written in the Victorian era had a deep impact in the English society. Dickens’ commitment for the society through his writings is clearly evident in this book. Just as Dickens’ expected, he sent out a ghost for Christmas – one which is not intended to scare – but the ghost of an idea – of selfless help and enjoyment in life – and it continues to haunt us pleasantly.