'A Christmas Carol': charity

Some might argue that Scrooge raising Bob’s wage is not an act of charity, but an act of employer responsibility. Sabbatarianism is the belief that all shops and businesses should be closed on the holy day (Sunday). Dickens seems to be criticising Sabbatarianism in Stave 3 of the novella. Dickens highlights the hypocrisy of those who claim to be religious, but seek to undermine others’ charitable efforts. Dickens places emphasis on the importance of individual charity.