Jacob Marley was a character in Charles Dickens’ classic novella ‘A Christmas Carol’. In the story, he serves a key function in guiding protagonist Ebeneezer Scrooge to redemption. Describing Marley’s mission to Scrooge, Charles Dickens wrote, “The usual footsteps of his old friend Jacob Marley, were heard upon the floor”.

Marley is believed to be a ghost of his former self, doomed to wander the earth after his death since he passed away with a lifetime of sins bound to him. His main mission is to teach Scrooge an important lesson, which is revealed to the reader as one of redemption. He cautions Scrooge, saying, “I am here to-night to warn you, that you have yet a chance and hope of escaping my fate. A chance and hope of my procuring, Ebenezer.”

Marley is the ghost of Christmas Past, and his presence serves to show Scrooge the consequences of his selfish and uncaring ways. He contrasts Scrooge’s life before and after the death of his business partner, Jacob Marley, and acts as a reminder of what could happen if Scrooge does not change his ways. His mission to Scrooge carries a redemptive message, showing Scrooge that it is never too late to take a different path. As Charles Dickens wrote, “You will be haunted by Three Spirits. Without their visits, you cannot hope to shun the path I tread.” Through this dialogue and sentiment, Jacob Marley helps Scrooge realize the importance of making better choices to secure the future of his soul.