Before you read the question, just know that this question is not straight from a test, I just need help to find understanding...so here goes. In "A Christmas Carol" Marley gets mad when Scrooge says that Marley was "a good man of business." Why does Marley get so mad? And what does he mean when he says that mankind was his business and welfare was his business as well as charity and mercy. I just don't understand why he gets so angry or what he means by saying that these other things were his business. Please help! I need someone to help me understand this, so I can complete my essay question and finish the quiz I've been stuck on for weeks. Thank you so much! :)
By "business", Scrooge means the managing and accumulation of money. Marley has learned, in death, that the real business of mankind is not MONEY, it's those other things, like charity and mercy.
That makes sense, but why does Marley get so mad?
Because Scrooge has not learned yet that the business of man is NOT money, but those other, more caring pursuits.
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In "A Christmas Carol," Marley gets angry when Scrooge says that Marley was "a good man of business" because Marley realizes that by focusing solely on his business and neglecting the well-being of others, he wasted his life. Marley's anger stems from his recognition of his own mistakes and his attempt to warn Scrooge before it's too late.
When Marley says that mankind was his business, he means that he believes it is the duty and responsibility of every individual to care for and help others. By declaring that mankind was his business, Marley implies that he views the well-being and welfare of all individuals as his personal concern.
Additionally, Marley states that welfare, charity, and mercy were his business. He implies that his priorities were not simply profit and success but also extending compassion, generosity, and support to those in need. Marley regrets that he failed to fulfill these responsibilities during his lifetime.
By becoming angry and emphasizing the importance of these values, Marley is urging Scrooge to change his ways and recognize the significance of compassion, kindness, and social responsibility.
To better understand Marley's reaction and statements, I suggest closely reading the relevant passages in "A Christmas Carol." Pay attention to Marley's remorse, his regret for not prioritizing human welfare, and the urgency with which he tries to convince Scrooge of the importance of these values. Additionally, consider the transformation Scrooge undergoes throughout the story and how it relates to Marley's message. This analysis will provide you with the necessary insights for your essay and help you answer the related quiz questions.