Stave 2 - Fezziwig

The lesson focuses on understanding the character of Fezziwig in Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” and how he serves as a foil to Ebenezer Scrooge.

Key components of the lesson include:

Initial Reflection: Students are prompted to think about the importance of having a role model or mentor, who might be a mentor to Scrooge, and what qualities make a good role model/mentor.

Character Analysis: The lesson explores why Dickens included Fezziwig in the story, highlighting Fezziwig’s positive traits to underscore Scrooge’s negative qualities. This contrast serves to emphasize the potential for Scrooge’s redemption.

Comparison Activity: Students are asked to read an extract and compare Fezziwig and Scrooge’s attitudes toward work, celebration, and their relationships with employees. This comparison is facilitated through questions and a Venn diagram activity.

Key Themes: The notes provide a detailed comparison between Fezziwig and Scrooge, contrasting their generosity, warmth, value of human relationships, and influence on others, with Fezziwig embodying the Christmas spirit and Scrooge representing its antithesis.

Vocabulary and Extract Analysis: Vocabulary related to the text is provided, and an extract from the story is analysed to illustrate Fezziwig’s character and his impact on the festive spirit.

By examining Fezziwig’s character, students gain insights into the themes of generosity, community, and the transformative power of kindness, all central to Dickens’ novella.