Readers do themselves injustices if they dismiss the significance of the title of a literary work, for it often holds the key to the theme of that work as well as the intent of the author in writing the work. In the case of Charles Dickens's "A Christmas Carol," the author relates the tale of a miserly man who supports the Poor Law of 1834, much like the contemporaries of Dickens in order to serve as a lesson to his society. For, as an advocate for the poor, Dickens was concerned about the evils of this law and uses his novella as a criticism of the economic system of England.
In the singing of Christmas carols, people are warmed by the lyrics and music of the songs, they are enlightened by some lyrics, and they are often encouraged to some charitable action or feelings by these carols. Likewise, in the reading of "A Christmas Carol" much emotion is evoked from the readers. Often people feel more charitable towards others after its reading; they also conduct some soul searching of their own and examination of conscience regarding their own choice of priorities. Thus, the character of Ebenezer Scrooge sits on the pages before readers as an extreme example of a man who has lost his hold on that which is truly valuable. Unlike the "foolish children" of O. Henry's "The Gift of the Magi," who are wise and realize that love is the greatest gift, Scrooge has forsaken what is truly meaningful--his love in his youth, his family with his nephew, his loyal employees with Bob Crachit, and, most of all, the plight of the needy. Dickens's lesson is presented to all the readers of his novella in order that they, too, may be afforded a second chance and do good deeds and bring "peace to men of goodwill" as one Christmas carol goes.
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