As the Christmas season draws closer and we revisit our favorite holiday traditions, one well-known tale will always stand out: A Christmas Carol. Most of us are familiar with the story—Ebenezer Scrooge’s character arc, the iconic “Bah, Humbug!” and the lovable Tiny Tim’s cheerful Christmas spirit. Since the novel’s publication in 1843, Charles Dickens’ masterpiece has been retold in many films, plays, and television specials.
Some of these adaptations include the 1951 film, starring Alistair Sim in his rich performance as the book’s main character; although some prefer to watch the classic movie Scrooge, released in 1935; or for a humorous and musical take on the story, The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992). Even cartoon characters were featured in comedic parodies of the novel (Bugs Bunny’s Christmas Carol, 1979; Mickey’s Christmas Carol, 1983). In any of its forms, A Christmas Carol is just as important today as it was 180 years ago. Why?
At the story’s beginning, the protagonist Ebenezer Scrooge is displayed as a miserable, cold man obsessed with wealth. As a selfish miser, he treats others poorly, including his employees and his nephew. But everything changes when Scrooge is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. The Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future show him the consequences of his greed. Ultimately these supernatural encounters are what push him to confront his choices. With the opportunity to change for the better, Scrooge is offered a chance at something both heartwarming and biblical—redemption.
While the theme of redemption is prominent in many literary works, it’s more than just a plot point; it is a concept rooted in biblical truth. In the Christian faith, our salvation ties into the message of redemption, reminding us that we are never too far gone to be saved by grace through faith. Even Scrooge, a lonesome and apathetic character, had a chance to redeem himself.
Despite being fictional, his story mirrors the fundamental principle of redemption. This theme will always apply to our world. In a society where people are bitter, hurt, and burdened, the messages in A Christmas Carol speak directly to us because it emphasizes our need for forgiveness and healing.
To put it simply, A Christmas Carol is still important today because of its timeless reminder that anyone, no matter how far gone, has a chance for redemption (even if you aren’t visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve!). If you have not read A Christmas Carol, give yourself the joy of reading it this Christmas. You may find that the story goes deeper than a piece of fiction.
