Time: past, present, and future

In A Christmas Carol, the different facets of time – past, present, and future – are symbolised by the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of Christmas Present, and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come respectively. Time is depicted as something which shapes and influences humans: individuals are informed by their past experiences, which influence their present actions, and therefore determine their futures. One of the central messages of the novella is perhaps that a favourable fate comes from favourable actions. That is, by acting with benevolence, one’s future is also likely to reflect this kindliness. In contrast, by acting selfishly, only negative consequences can ensue.