The Characteristics Of Materialism In Scrooge's Christmas Carol

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Scrooge’s materialistic view stands out in severe contrast to other characters of the book. In an argument with his uncle, his nephew says “There are many things from which I might have derived good, by which I have not profited” showing that he does not believe people can benefit from only material things. He also shows sympathy for Scrooge during his Christmas gathering despite that Scrooge treats him in such a rude manner. Scrooge’s employer, Fezziwig, displays a prime example of how happiness is more important than currency. He closes work early on Christmas day to gather everyone together and have a party, just for the opportunity for everyone to enjoy themselves. The example that surprises Scrooge most of all is the Cratchit family’s …show more content…
He learns that money is not what creates happiness. When Scrooge is brought to a Christmas party that Fezziwig had, the spirit begins to question Scrooge, asking him why the party is such a big deal if he only spent a few pounds. Scrooge unconsciously responds by saying “The happiness he gives is quite as great as if it cost a fortune.” (Dickens 40). He now understands the ideals of happiness that Fezziwig had. The spirit also brings up his sister’s kindness when Scrooge was all by himself. Scrooge learns that happiness is not bias of the situation that you are in. The Ghost of Christmas Present takes Scrooge to the deepest crevasses of the social classes and displays the joy of those in bad economic situations. Lastly, he takes Scrooge to his nephew’s Christmas party and shows him the joy that he could have been sharing with others. Last of all, the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come shows Scrooge how other people view him. His laundress, charwoman, and undertaker all loot his possessions after he dies. In addition, he listens to businessmen talking about him negatively, saying that no one will be at his funeral. Seeing that no one truely views him as a good person has an impact on Scrooge, compelling him to …show more content…
People who think this way give priority to their possessions and their wants rather than to their values and kindness. This mindset is usually catalysed from past events and experiences. Materialism can be summarized by the three words, possessiveness, nongenerosity, and envy, as they all describe the topic and are linked together in some way. Although Scrooge clearly displays this mindset early on in the book, he transitions away from it and becomes a completely new person by the end of the text as he is brought through impactful moments of the past, present, and future. The topic of materialism is important as it is present in many people throughout today’s society. The best way to prevent people from becoming too materialistic is understanding the root of why they display this greed and most importantly, help show them that they truly do not need money to be

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