Teaching through the Ghost of Christmas Past.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Unlocking Memory and Transformation

As we enter the season of reflection or another way to put it -  as my year 11s are finishing mock season meaning on to English Literature Paper one revision I go – which in this case is ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens. A tale which offers a powerful story of redemption, led by a visit from the mysterious Ghost of Christmas Past. This spectral figure invites both Scrooge and readers to reflect on the impact of memory, loss, and transformation. As I begin to plan for my post mock lessons I wanted to write a brief blog on the character using two teaching guides, ‘Ready to Teach Christmas Carol’ by Stuart Pryke and Amy Staniforth, and ‘Christmas Carol’ by Haili Hughes. I’ve found new ways to make this character resonate for students within the classroom.

The Ghost of Christmas Past: Illuminating Memory and Regret

The Ghost of Christmas Past is a particularly haunting figure, embodying both light and shadow. It appears as a blend of youthful and elderly features, symbolising the dual nature of memories: comforting yet painful, enlightening yet unavoidable. Pryke and Staniforth highlight how Dickens uses this ghost to reveal Scrooge’s emotional depths and to show how past choices ripple into the present. By revisiting scenes of innocence and regret, students can examine how Scrooge’s harsh exterior was formed and understand the complex relationship between memory and identity. This is an incredibly insightful and poignant concept for my year 11s to know.

Exploring Symbolism and Imagery

To convey the power of this ghost’s presence, consider focusing on Dickens' use of language to capture its otherworldly quality. Here is one approach to symbolism:

Close Reading of Descriptions. Begin with a close examination of Dickens’ description of the Ghost of Christmas Past, asking students to analyse imagery such as ‘its light was burning high’ and ‘its face… like that of a child.’ Students can explore why Dickens presents this ghost as both comforting and eerie, and how these features symbolise memory itself - warm yet sometimes painful to revisit. I find quotation explosions really helpful when doing this.

Using the past to reflect on present choices

Hughes’ work with ‘A Christmas Carol’ focuses on how the Ghost of Christmas Past goes beyond just showing Scrooge his memories; it serves as a moral mirror, revealing how his choices created his isolation. I am really looking forward to using this point as a springboard for student reflection on the impact of Scrooge’s choices. Asking students to consider Scrooge’s feelings of regret and loneliness. Revising these notions as the novella progresses helping them to connect to the text on an individual level. I was really thoughtful with this point when planning and it definitely reminded me to draw out this feature within my lessons.

Exploring transformation through memory

Memory mapping. Ask students to map Scrooge’s key memories as shown by the Ghost of Christmas Past, analysing how each one contributes to his growth. Encourage them to think about how each memory teaches Scrooge a lesson about love, loss, and change.

The Symbol of Light. Using Pryke and Staniforth’s guidance, invite students to examine light and dark imagery in the ghost scenes. This analysis can deepen their understanding of Dickens’ commentary on the potential for inner transformation when we confront our past.

Learning from the Ghost of Christmas Past

The Ghost of Christmas Past isn’t merely a figure in a story; it’s a reminder of the importance of reflection, forgiveness, and change. As we guide students through this transformative journey, we not only help them understand Scrooge’s redemption but also provide them with tools for personal growth.

References

Dickens, C, 1843. A Christmas Carol.

Pryke, S. and Staniforth, A, 2022. Ready to Teach: A Christmas Carol – A Compendium of Knowledge, Resources and Pedagogy. Woodbridge: John Catt Educational.

Hughes, H, 2024. GCSE English Literature for AQA: Boost – A Christmas Carol: With all you need to know for GCSE English Literature. London: David Fulton.