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Charles Dickens and the Invention of Christmas

Griff Rhys Jones reveals how Dickens created the idea of a traditional family Christmas through one of his best-known books, A Christmas Carol.

Griff Rhys Jones reveals how Dickens created the idea of a traditional family Christmas through one of his best-known books, A Christmas Carol. From the moment it was published in 1843, the story of miserly Ebeneezer Scrooge captured the imagination of Victorian Britain. Santa Claus, Christmas cards and crackers were invented around the same time, but it was Dickens's book that boosted the craze for Christmas, above all promoting the idea that Christmas is best celebrated with the family.

Interviewees include former on-screen Scrooge, Patrick Stewart, and writer Lucinda Hawksley, great-great-great-granddaughter of Charles Dickens himself.

1 hour

Last on

Boxing Day 202208:15
BBC Two

Credits

PresenterGriff Rhys Jones
Interviewed GuestPatrick Stewart
Interviewed GuestLucinda Hawksley
ProducerJacquie Hughes

Broadcasts

  • Sun 23 Dec 200714:45
    BBC Two Scotland
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    BBC Two except East, Scotland, Wales (Analogue) & Yorkshire
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    BBC Four
  • Thu 15 Dec 202202:05
    BBC Four
  • Boxing Day 202208:15
    BBC Two except East, Scotland, Wales (Analogue) & Yorkshire

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