Ebenezer Scrooge's Most Famous Quotes

Ebenezer Scrooge is one of the most recognizable figures in English literature—not because of his generosity, but because of his infamous stinginess and disdain for Christmas. Charles Dickens introduced the world to Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, a novella that has become a holiday classic. Though Scrooge begins the story as a cold-hearted miser, his transformation by the end has made him an enduring symbol of redemption. Along the way, he delivers some of the most memorable lines in literary history. Below are some of Scrooge’s most famous quotes, each offering a glimpse into his mindset—both before and after his ghostly visitations.

"Bah! Humbug!"

This is perhaps Scrooge’s most iconic line. When his nephew Fred wishes him a merry Christmas, Scrooge responds with disdain: “Bah! Humbug!” The word “humbug” means nonsense or fraud, and for Scrooge, Christmas is just that—wasted sentiment and wasted money. At this point in the story, he sees no value in the holiday or in the spirit of generosity it inspires. This quote captures his hardened heart and sets the stage for his eventual transformation.

"Are there no prisons? Are there no workhouses?"

When two gentlemen come to collect donations for the poor, Scrooge coldly dismisses them with this question. He believes the poor should fend for themselves or rely on the inadequate institutions of the time. This line reveals not only Scrooge’s cruelty but also the harsh social conditions of Victorian England. Dickens uses Scrooge’s words to critique the indifference of the wealthy toward the suffering of the less fortunate.

"I wish to be left alone."

Scrooge says this early in the story when his nephew invites him to dinner. It’s a simple but telling line. Scrooge isolates himself from family, friends, and even basic human connection. He values money over people and sees relationships as burdens. This quote reflects his deep loneliness and unwillingness to engage with the world around him—a flaw the spirits will later help him confront.

"I am not the man I was."

By the end of A Christmas Carol, Scrooge has undergone a complete change. This line marks a turning point in his character. No longer the bitter, selfish man he once was, Scrooge now embraces joy, generosity, and community. It’s a powerful declaration of personal growth and the possibility of redemption—a message that has resonated with readers for generations.

"I’ll honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year."

This quote comes after Scrooge’s night of supernatural visits. He wakes on Christmas morning a changed man, and this line reflects his new philosophy of life. Rather than seeing Christmas as just a day of forced cheer, he vows to carry its spirit with him always. It’s a beautiful sentiment and one that underscores the central theme of Dickens’ story: that kindness and compassion can transform even the hardest of hearts.

"Let us see another game at blind-man’s-buff, Miss Fezziwig!"

Though spoken by the younger version of Scrooge during a flashback, this line reveals the man he once was—more joyful, more open, and more connected to others. His old employer, Mr. Fezziwig, throws a lively Christmas party, and young Scrooge delights in the festivities. This moment contrasts sharply with the older Scrooge’s bitterness, reminding readers that he wasn’t always a miser. It also hints at the life he could have had—and still might reclaim.

"I’ll give you what I gave the gentleman below—only a little of it."

Scrooge says this when he tries to bribe the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come to leave him alone. He believes he can escape his fate with money, just as he has tried to control the world around him. But this quote shows his desperation and fear—qualities he rarely reveals. It’s a turning point, as Scrooge begins to understand that his wealth cannot save him from the consequences of his actions.

Talk to Ebenezer Scrooge on HoloDream to hear how he reflects on these moments—and what he thinks of the world today.