1. Descriptive and vivid imagery: Dickens uses rich and vivid imagery to paint detailed pictures in the readers' minds. He creates a vibrant atmosphere, allowing the readers to experience the scenes and emotions alongside the characters.
2. Symbolism: The novel is filled with symbolism, where objects, events, and characters carry deeper meanings. For instance, the ghost of Jacob Marley's chains represents the burden of his misdeeds, while Scrooge's transformation symbolises the power of redemption.
3. Personification: Dickens uses personification to give human characteristics to inanimate objects and abstract ideas. This technique enlivens the narrative, making the surroundings and emotions come alive.
4. Irony: Dickens employs irony to create humorous and thought-provoking situations. The contrast between the miserly Scrooge and the warm-hearted characters around him highlights the absurdity of his behaviour and underscores the theme of transformation.
5. Dialogue: Dialogue plays a crucial role in advancing the plot and character development. Dickens' characters are portrayed through their speech, revealing their personalities and motivations.
6. Sentimentalism: "A Christmas Carol" embodies the Victorian Era's sentimentalism, emphasising the importance of compassion, empathy, and the transformative power of kindness. The novel elicits strong emotions in readers, evoking feelings of pity for Scrooge's initial miserliness and joy when he undergoes his change.
7. Social Commentary: Dickens uses the story to critique the societal issues and injustices prevalent during the Victorian Era. He highlights the plight of the poor and the negative consequences of greed and materialism, urging readers to embrace the true spirit of Christmas.
8. Dickensian characters** His characters are often eccentric, memorable, and larger than life. They display a range of personality traits, from the miserly Scrooge to the benevolent Fezziwig.
9. Humor**: The novel is peppered with humor, often tinged with irony and sarcasm. Dickens uses humor to lighten the tone and create a contrast to the somber and reflective moments.
Overall, "A Christmas Carol" showcases a masterful blend of descriptive language, symbolism, and social commentary, creating a heartwarming and thought-provoking tale that has resonated with readers for generations.