A Christmas Carol - The Kansas City Repertory Theatre

What does “redemption” mean to you? Think of another story you have read or play or movie you have
seen that is about redemption. Compare that story and the characters’ journey to the story and
characters of A Christmas Carol.
A Christmas Carol takes place during the Industrial Revolution in England. Of course societal and
economic conditions of the time had a strong effect on the characters, their attitudes about class,
money and what is truly important. Compare England’s Industrial Revolution to what society is like
today in America. What are some similarities and differences? Describe some examples of how we, as a
society, are still preoccupied with money and material objects. Do we need to change our attitudes
about the importance of money? If so, how can we do that?
Charles Dickens believed that education could end poverty and crime. Do you agree with this idea? Why
or why not?
Family is a central theme of this story. What are different examples of family Dickens provides? What is
your definition of family and who do you consider to be members of your family?
Christmas is a time when we think of gifts – both giving and receiving. Gifts can be material items that
are purchased or made or gifts can be non‐material items (for example‐ singing someone a song or
helping someone with their housework). Reflect on special gifts that you have received that meant a
great deal to you. Which gifts cost money? Which gifts were made or were non‐material? Explain why
each gift was special. Which gift
means the most to you and why?
What does the word “humbug”
mean? What words are the
modern day equivalents of
“humbug”? Thinking back on the
play, which aspects of the
Christmas celebrations does
Scrooge call “humbug”? When is
the first time in his life that
Scrooge uses the term? Why do
you think Scrooge has such a
negative outlook on these
celebrations? Are there any
aspects of the holiday season that
you believe are “humbug”?
Explain.
Lower left: Gary Neal Johnson (Scrooge), center: Jim Gall
(Ghost of Christmas Present); photo by Don Ipcock
Do you believe it is possible to enrich or understand your own life in a deeper way through seeing plays,
listening to music, reading books or experiencing other types of art? Can you think of an example of
visual art or a performance you have experienced that has made you think or feel differently about
yourself or some aspect of the world?
A Christmas Carol: Learning Guide Page 27