humble or moderate in amount, size or quality; not extravagant or overly showy

a division of society based on economic status, wealth, occupation and social standing

the gap between different social classes, often marked by inequality in wealth and opportunity

to represent or stand for something, often through a symbol, action or object

an amount beyond what is necessary or reasonable; overindulgence or surplus

'A Christmas Carol': a comparison of social class

English

'A Christmas Carol': Dickens’ depictions of Victorian London

'A Christmas Carol': Dickens’ depictions of poverty and suffering

'A Christmas Carol': Dickens’ depictions of wealth and status

'A Christmas Carol': Dickens’ depictions of Victorian values

'A Christmas Carol': Dickens’ critique of Victorian institutions

Writing an extended response on 'A Christmas Carol'

In this unit, pupils explore Dickens’ use of religious ideas in order to explore themes of charity and morality, considering how he encourages Christian readers to show compassion to the poor.

In this unit, pupils explore how Dickens presents 'A Christmas Carol' as a critique of dominant Victorian values. They first look at how he presents Victorian London, before looking at how he depicts poverty, suffering, wealth and status. They then look at what Dickens is critiquing in the novella.

Nineteenth century text: third deep dive

Historic or outdated representations of people that may portray inequality or injustice.

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

the differences between genders in society

the gap between social classes based on wealth, status and opportunity

the division between rural and urban areas

the separation of people based on their age

Which of the following groups does Dickens portray as celebrating Christmas despite poverty in 'A Christmas Carol'?

Complete this sentence: 'Through 'A Christmas Carol', Dickens implies the rich should focus less on {{}} and more on showing compassion to those in need.'

Complete this sentence about Stave 3 of 'A Christmas Carol': 'The Christmas shopping scene at the grocer's focuses on {{}}.'

they value relationships and community over material wealth

wealthy people like to feel sorry for themselves

Complete this sentence about 'A Christmas Carol': 'Dickens implies that poorer people are ultimately happier than wealthy people because ...'

What was the main source of food for poor Victorians?

What luxury item was often a sign of wealth during Christmas in the Victorian era?

The Cratchit family in 'A Christmas Carol' represents ...

The Victorian wealthy class typically lived in ...

descriptive language appealing to the senses

Which of the following best describes imagery?

'A Christmas Carol': a comparison of social class

Lesson outcome

Content guidance