A Christmas Carol · Chapter
Stave V: The End of It explained
Scrooge awakens on Christmas morning, overjoyed to find he has a second chance.
What happens
Scrooge awakens on Christmas morning, overjoyed to find he has a second chance. He sends a large turkey to the Cratchits, donates generously to charity, attends Fred's Christmas dinner, and raises Bob Cratchit's salary, becoming a transformed man.
Themes in this chapter
Redemption and Transformation
Scrooge's complete change from miser to benefactor embodies the theme of personal redemption.
The Spirit of Christmas
Scrooge embraces Christmas joy, generosity, and community, epitomizing the holiday spirit.
Family and Community
Scrooge reconnects with Fred's family and supports the Cratchits, highlighting the importance of human bonds.
Characters to notice
- Ebenezer Scrooge
Awakens transformed, full of joy and good intentions; sends a turkey to the Cratchits, visits Fred, and raises Bob's salary.
- Bob Cratchit
Arrives late to work; receives a salary raise and a promise of assistance from Scrooge.
- Fred
Welcomes Scrooge to Christmas dinner with great warmth and happiness.
- Tiny Tim
Does not die; Scrooge becomes a second father to him.
- Topper
Present at Fred's Christmas dinner party.
Key passages
“I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future! The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me.”
Scrooge vows to carry the lessons of all three ghosts with him always.
Scrooge's commitment to his transformation.
“I am as light as a feather, I am as happy as an angel, I am as merry as a schoolboy.”
Scrooge feels an overwhelming sense of joy and freedom.
His euphoria upon waking.
“I'll send it to Bob Cratchit's. He shan't know who sends it.”
Scrooge plans to anonymously gift a turkey to Bob's family.
His first act of anonymous generosity.
“I am about to raise your salary!”
Scrooge announces he will increase Bob's wages.
Scrooge's promise of financial support.