A Christmas Carol
What obstacles does Scrooge have to overcome during the course of the play?
Are the obstacles internal or external?
Are the obstacles internal or external?
Scrooge's obstacles are largely internal. Although he has attempted to burn many bridges with relatives, like his nephew, they do eventually welcome him back. Ebenezer must come to terms with his own pain (from the past) as well as his stubborn value system which he has used to both define and validate himself. All three ghosts serve as a cathartic function to mediate between Scrooge's steadfast individuality and his re-awakening kinder gentler soul. Scrooge must come to terms with the pain of his past mistakes (like not marrying), his present harshness and his future downfall before he becomes the dynamic character which he turns into.