In short, a student can analyze Charles Dickens’ writing by plucking out representative examples from the text and explaining the writing style using those examples. Often, an instructor will have a list of particular literary elements he or she wants explained. Other times, the student is left on his or her own to figure out which elements should be discussed. In the case of Charles Dickens, my suggestion would be to begin with Dickens’ literary style by looking at the point of view and the setting and to continue with his usage of figurative language such as symbolism.
A Christmas Carol is written in the third person, but sometimes has a first person narrator who appears to give commentary. This is an interesting combination of point of view and a distinct element of Dickens’ writing style. The setting is also significant. In general, Charles Dickens’ setting is Victorian England on Christmas Eve (and Christmas Day). There are other smaller elements of time and place that can be indicated as well (such as the timing of the spirits and the different homes and alleys Scrooge visits on his journey with them). In regards to symbolism, Christmas Day becomes a grand symbol in itself. For Dickens, Christmas Day becomes a symbol of rebirth and even of redemption of character.
By giving examples of each individual element discussed above, a student can easily analyze the writing style of Charles Dickens.
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