“A Christmas Carol” Scene 1 and 2
Directions: Answer each question in complete sentences.
1. Why is Scrooge disgusted with Christmas?
2. Why does Scrooge feel justified in turning down the visitor’s request for a donation?
3. Which character makes a more convincing argument about the situation of the poor? What
message or theme does this dialogue suggest?
4. When and where does the scene of the poorhouse take place in relation to Scrooge’s
conversation with the visitor?
5. On page 404, lines 119-120, what does the phrase “put you down for something” mean?
6. Why do you think the image of Marley, Scrooge’s former partner, appears to Scrooge?
7. In scene 2, lines 44-52, what does Scrooge’s refusal to give his servants money at Christmas
reveal about his priorities?
8. How does the photograph of Marley’s appearance on page 407 contribute to the mood of the
scene?
9. What events are foreshadowed by Marley’s message (lines 115-129, scene 2)?
10. What is confusing about the chiming of the clock? What might this suggest about the sequence
of events to come?