Saturday, December 22, 2012

What does the Ghost share about Tiny Tim’s future?How does Scrooge react, and what does this show about him?

The Ghost of Christmas Present shows Scrooge how the Cratchits celebrate Christmas. It's a happy, jolly scene, full of warmth and laughter. But there's no getting away from the fact that Tiny Tim's not in the best of health. He's so severely disabled that he has to be carried home from church by his father. And when at home, he can only get about by hobbling around on crutches.
Scrooge shows concern for Tiny Tim by asking the Ghost what will happen to him. The Ghost replies by telling Scrooge that if things go on as they are, then Tiny Tim will die. The implication here is that Scrooge must change his ways in order to save the young lad's life. At this stage in the story, it would appear that Scrooge is indeed starting to change his ways. His concern for Tiny Tim's welfare appears genuine and unforced. But it's only later on, when the Ghost of Christmas Yet-to-Come shows him Bob Cratchit and his family mourning the death of Tiny Tim, that Scrooge finally realizes his responsibilities towards the poor young boy.

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