A Christmas Carol: Character Profiles
Ebenezer Scrooge
- Ebenezer Scrooge, the central protagonist, undergoes a significant transformation.
- He is initially a grumpy, miserly old man who despises Christmas and goodwill towards others.
- After being visited by three spirits (Past, Present, Future), he changes into a happier, more charitable character, embodying the spirit of Christmas.
Bob Cratchit
- Bob Cratchit is an employee of Scrooge and father of Tiny Tim.
- Despite being poor and ill-treated at work, he remains positive and good-hearted.
- He represents the struggles of the lower-class in Victorian society.
Tiny Tim
- Tiny Tim, the ill son of Bob Cratchit, is depicted as a symbol of the disadvantaged.
- Despite his illness, he remains joyous and hopeful, providing a stark contrast to Scrooge's initial demeanour.
- His life-threatening condition motivates Scrooge's change in the end.
Jacob Marley
- Jacob Marley, Scrooge's former business partner, is now a tormented spirit.
- His appearance serves as a warning for Scrooge about the consequences of a selfish life.
- His chains symbolise the burdens of regret and misspent life.
The Ghost of Christmas Past
- The Ghost of Christmas Past is the first of the three spirits who visits Scrooge.
- It portrays Scrooge’s past life, showing the hurt and loneliness he endured.
- Helps Scrooge understand his actions and attitudes.
The Ghost of Christmas Present
- The Ghost of Christmas Present is the second spirit to visit Scrooge, showing him the realities of the world on Christmas Day.
- It introduces Scrooge to the struggles and also the joy of people during Christmas.
- Offers a critique of societal issues at the time, such as ignorance and poverty.
The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come
- The terrifying, silent figure known as the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come is the third and final spirit, who shows Scrooge his potential demise.
- It displays what the future holds if Scrooge does not change his ways.
- This visit ultimately incites Scrooge's transformation.
Fred
- Fred, Scrooge's cheerful and kind-hearted nephew, consistently invites him over for Christmas, showing persistent affection despite Scrooge's indifference.
- Fred embodies the theme of family and the joy of Christmas.
When revising, try to think about how each character's behaviours and attitudes reflect the book’s themes and contribute to the storyline.