Comprehension Check Act I; Scene 1-2

1.) In what year is the play set?

• 1843

• 1899

• 1903

• 2005

Read the excerpt below. Answer questions 2-3.

Scrooge: Bah! Humbug!

Nephew: Christmas a “humbug,” Uncle? I’m sure you don’t mean that. 

Scrooge: I do! Merry Christmas? What right do you have to be merry? What reason have you to be merry? You’re poor enough! 

Nephew: Come, then. What right have you to be dismal? What reason have you to be morose? You’re rich enough.  

Using context clues, what is the best definition of morose?

• cheerful; merry

• playful; humorous

• gloomy; grumpy

 

2b.) How does the word merry help you figure out the meaning of morose?

• They are synonyms.

• It doesn't help

• They are antonyms.

3.) What is Scrooge's relationship like with his nephew?

• They have a wonderful relationship. They are very close with one another.

• It is not a great relationship. Scrooge doesn't want to be close with his nephew.

• They have a strong family bond. They trust and respect each other.

• Scrooge's nephew looks up to him. He wants to be just like his uncle.

4.) How long ago did Jacob Marley die?

• 30 years ago

• 1 week ago

• He has not yet died.

• 7 years ago

5.) What relationship did Jacob Marley and Scrooge have?

• father and son

• business partners

• brothers

• nephew and uncle

6.) What does Scrooge do when the Thin Man and Portly Man come to ask for donations for the poor?

• Scrooge donates lots of money to their cause.

• Scrooge donates but very little money.

• Scrooge refuses to donate, and he suggests the poor be sent to prisons and workhouses for Christmas.

• Scrooge asks the men if he can join their cause to help raise more money.