Charles Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol in 1843. The novella tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly, selfish man who is taught the true meaning of Christmas by spirits. On Christmas Eve, Scrooge receives visits from the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come. They show him how his cold-hearted ways have isolated him and allow him to see the error of his ways. Scrooge undergoes a profound transformation and commits to celebrating Christmas and rediscovering compassion for others. The story became instantly popular and has had a significant influence on modern Christmas traditions and values of generosity and goodwill.