GCSE A Christmas Carol Vocabulary

I have made a comprehensive vocabulary list for the GCSE level novel, A Christmas Carol. This list will assist you in writing better essays for literature exams. The words included will give your writing a more refined and sophisticated touch, which is sure to impress the examiners. In addition to the definitions, I have provided sample sentences for each word to help you understand their usage.

Redemption

the action of saving or being saved from sin, error, or evil.

Certainly, Dickens’ wider message was hope for humanity and that everybody was capable of change and redemption. 

Misanthropic

having or showing a dislike of other people; unsociable.

In stave one, Dickens characterises Scrooge as Misanthropic, as he prefers to be alone and avoids people.

Philanthropic

seeking to promote the welfare of others; generous.

In Stave 5, Scrooge’s philanthropic acts of kindness, such as buying a prize turkey and raising Bob Cratchit’s salary, leaves readers with the hopeful and uplifting message that selflessness and generosity can bring long-lasting happiness and satisfaction. 

Salvation

being saved from evil or harm.

Dickens’ novella, A Christmas Carol, shows that even the most miserly people in society have a chance of salvation. 

Allegory

a story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.

Scrooge is an allegorical figure. Dickens uses him to warn Society about the consequences of avarice. 

Symbolism

An object that stands for itself and a greater idea; it creates a direct link between an object and something deeper and more significant. In literature, symbols can also be characters, events, or colours.

Throughout A Christmas Carol, fire symbolises family, generosity  and community. Furthermore, it could also be said to symbolise having Christmas spirit. 

Antithesis

a person or thing that is the direct opposite of someone or something else.

In a Christmas Carol, Fezziwig is the antithesis Of Ebenezer Scrooge. Fezziwig ensured he was, ‘shaking hands with every person individually’, presenting Him to be an inclusive person.

Altruistic

showing a disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others; unselfish.

Dickens uses Fezziwig as an example of how an altruistic employer creates a sense of family and community in the workplace.

Benevolence

being kind and helpful towards others.

Fred embraces the Christian virtues of benevolence and forgiveness and his words and actions demonstrate how he values family and friendship which leads to happiness. 

Foil

Is a character who may share similarities, but also some important differences, with another character. This draws attention to the key differences. 

Fred is a character foil for Scrooge. They are different because Fred values Christmas and Scrooge rejects it. 

Motif

a recurring image, idea, sounds, or words used as a reminder throughout a text.

The recurring image of a fire is the best example of a motif in A Christmas Carol. Throughout the novella, Dickens shows examples of family and friendship using the motif of fire. It links to the big idea of the importance of the Christmas spirit and happiness is found with family, friends and community not the pursuit of wealth.

Penitence

a feeling of regret or remorse for a mistake or a sin and a willingness to correct it. 

Scrooge must feel penitence if he wishes to redeem himself.

Avarice

Extreme greed for wealth and material gain.

Dickens uses Scrooge as an allegorical figure who is used to warn his readers about the negative consequences of avarice.

Epiphany

a moment of great realisation.

Scrooge experiences a series of epiphanies which Show him the errors of his ways.

Propel

to drive or push something forwards.

Marley’s Ghost comes as a warning to Scrooge and propels Scrooge to the path of redemption.

Vignette

a short descriptive scene that adds depth and support to a piece of writing. They are the equivalent of photographs.

Dickens’ use of vignettes of abundance in Stave 3 to show how there was enough food and wealth to share. The image was created to refute the Malthusian theory.

Sabbatarianism

was the Victorian practice of the middle and upper classes going to church on Saturday and resting.

Dickens was anti-Sabbatarianism as this practice was harmful to the poor people. many poor people didn’t have an oven and therefore on a Saturday would go without warm food as bakers were closed.

Sentimental

tender feelings or emotions like love or pity or nostalgia.

Tiny Tim is a highly sentimental character, as he represents the neglected working class children of the Victorian times. He is used to evoke sympathy from the readers. 

Didactic

intending to teach a moral or political lesson

Dickens’ didactic book encourages readers to embrace the Christmas Spirit through acts of charity and benevolence.

That’s it for now! Do keep an eye out, as I will keep adding to this ” A Christmas Carol vocabulary” list.

Make sure to go through this extensive vocabulary list consistently. Read, write and repeat to ensure it goes into your long-term memory. Try to write your sentences, including the words in this list and watch your grade boost!

Finally, if you need some advice on how to develop your skills for GCSE English overall, then have a look at my How to get a Grade 9 in GCSE English post.

Also if you are studying Macbeth, be sure to check out my GCSE Macbeth Vocabulary post.