In this deck, we'll analyse the character of Mr. Fezziwig from 'A Christmas Carol'. The Ghost of Christmas Past shows Scrooge this memory for a crucial reason. Fezziwig serves as a powerful model of a kind and generous employer, acting as a direct contrast, or foil, to the miserly businessman Scrooge has become. We will explore how Dickens uses Fezziwig to send a clear message about generosity, happiness, and the social responsibility of the wealthy.

The memory of Fezziwig's Christmas party is full of warmth, energy, and joy. Dickens describes a warehouse transformed into a ballroom, with a fiddler playing lively music. Fezziwig and his wife dance with infectious enthusiasm, and they provide plentiful food and drink for everyone. Importantly, the guest list is inclusive: it's not just family, but his apprentices, Scrooge and Dick Wilkins, and everyone connected to the business, right down to the housemaid and the baker. This scene is a vibrant picture of community and celebration, all orchestrated by a benevolent employer.

As Scrooge watches this happy scene, he begins to reflect on Fezziwig's impact. He tells the Ghost that Fezziwig's power is immense. He says an employer has 'the power to render us happy or unhappy; to make our service light or burdensome; a pleasure or a toil.' This is a pivotal moment. Scrooge realises for the first time that wealth isn't just about money; it's about the influence you have over people's lives. The happiness Fezziwig creates, Scrooge argues, 'is quite as great as if it cost a fortune.' This directly contrasts with how Scrooge uses his own power to make Bob Cratchit's life miserable.