On Wednesday, May 15, 2024, the category for the Final Jeopardy round was “19th Century Literary Characters.” The intriguing clue provided to the contestants was: “John Elwes, a millionaire member of parliament who would go to bed before dusk to save on candles, inspired this character.”
This clue refers to a literary character renowned for extreme frugality, much like Elwes himself. The participants had to rack their brains to connect the historical figure with a well-known character from 19th-century literature.
John Elwes’ reputation as a miser made him a compelling figure, not just in historical accounts but also in literary inspirations. Known for his eccentric money-saving methods, Elwes’ life was a goldmine of anecdotes, which translated well into the literary world. Contestants were expected to use their knowledge of literature coupled with the historical context provided to arrive at the correct answer.
Who is Ebenezer Scrooge?
The correct response to the clue was “Who is Ebenezer Scrooge?” This character is central to Charles Dickens’ iconic novella, “A Christmas Carol,” published in 1843. Scrooge is depicted as a greedy, bitter old miser who undergoes a profound transformation into a gentler, kinder man after being visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come.
The inspiration drawn from John Elwes for Scrooge’s character highlights Dickens’ ability to weave real-life figures into his narratives, making them relatable yet transformative. Dickens often incorporated contemporary figures and their traits into his works, providing a mirror to the society of his time. Scrooge’s character serves not only as a critical piece of social commentary on Victorian England but also as a timeless figure representing personal redemption and the spirit of the holiday season.
Literary and Historical Significance
The inclusion of such a character clue in Jeopardy underlines the enduring appeal of 19th-century literary figures in popular culture. These characters, especially those crafted by Dickens, have transcended the pages of their books to become staples in educational curricula and cultural discussions worldwide. The question not only tests literary knowledge but also encourages an understanding of the historical and social contexts that influenced these literary creations.
The story behind the inspiration of Ebenezer Scrooge by John Elwes provides a fascinating glimpse into the creative process of Charles Dickens. It showcases how Dickens took real-life eccentricities and extreme behaviors, exemplified by Elwes, and transformed them into a narrative driving both social critique and literary excellence.