Story Elements
Who are the characters in the episode?
Garfield, Jon, Odie, Jon's family members (Mom, Brother, Grandma)
Someone might say that at the beginning of the episode, Garfield woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Explain what this means.
To wake up in a bad or cranky mood that continues throughout the day.
How does Garfield feel about Jon's Christmas plans for the family when he is woken up? Give 2 examples of how you know.
Garfield is annoyed and does not want to go to the farm. He is refusing to wake up, pulling the covers back over his head, and his facial expression looks upset.
"This is what it's all about, boys. Hard work, crisp weather and beautiful scenery!"
What does the word "crisp" mean?
Refreshingly cold and clear
Explain how the holiday theme of TRADITION is shown in the episode.
Jon, Garfield and Odie visiting the farm, having dinner together, trimming the tree and putting the star on last, Dad reading a Christmas story.
What is the setting?
Garfield's house, the farm
What does Jon's Grandma mean when she says to her daughter "put a sock in it, deary" ?
Stop talking.
Why does Garfield get a red face and breathe fire after trying a bite of the sausage gravy?
Grandma sneaking chili powder in it made it very spicy.
When Garfield and Odie are being fed under the table, Garfield says "Attentive service, excellent cuisine."
What does cuisine mean?
Food cooked in a certain way.
Explain how the theme of TOGETHERNESS is portrayed in the episode.
Jon traveling to be with his family on the farm, participating in all the family traditions together.
What is the main problem in the episode?
Garfield's lack of Christmas spirit and poor attitude toward the holiday and traditions.
What did Grandma mean when she stopped playing the piano and said "you better not touch those ivories until they've had a chance to cool down for a while" ?
She was using personification to imply that the piano keys were hot, because she had done such a good job performing.
How does Garfield feel when he first makes it to the top of the tree to put up the star? How does he feel afterward?
Scared because he realizes how high up he was. Afterward, he felt proud but irritated, and made a negative comment about Christmas trees.
Grandma says when talking about Grandpa: "Men like him didn't feel like they could show much affection outwardly to the children, but on Christmas, it was okay."
What does affection mean?
Showing that you care about someone through words, actions and touch.
Explain how the theme of NOSTALGIA is portrayed in the episode.
(Nostalgia: a sentimental longing or wishing for the past)
Grandma telling stories about her and Grandpa on Christmas.
What is the solution?
Garfield listens to Grandma's stories, finds Grandpa's love letters in the barn, and is given a thoughtful gift by Odie. These things help him remember the spirit of Christmas.
What did Jon and his brother really mean when they made the following comments about the Christmas story their Dad read?
"Let's see if Binky saves Christmas again."
"For a couple of minutes there, I was getting really worried."
They were being sarcastic. They knew Binky was going to save Christmas in the story because they read the same story every year.
How did the family feel when Doc-Boy (Jon's brother) started playing piano and performing "Oh Christmas Tree"? How did they feel when Grandma took over?
They weren't fans of Doc-Boys playing or singing, and were surprised to see how talented and enthusiastic Grandma was.
What does courting mean?
Dating, usually with the intention of getting married.
Explain how the theme of GENEROSITY is portrayed in the episode.
What are some themes?
Multiple correct answers :)
In the movie "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," the Grinch's heart "grew three sizes" at the end of the movie. What does this quote mean, and how does it apply to Garfield?
It is a metaphor for a change of heart, which Garfield experiences when he exchanges gifts with his family on Christmas morning.
How do you think Garfield might feel about going to the farm next year for Christmas?
Maybe he will be more excited and positive after enjoying Christmas morning with his family this time.
Garfield can be described as a surly cat, because he is usually in a bad mood and making negative comments to others.
What does surly mean?
Rude, not friendly.
Explain how the theme of LOVE is portrayed in the episode?
Exchanging of gifts with the family, Garfield's speech at the end.