Bob Key quotes

“He tried to warm himself at the candle”

Context: Stave 1 – This quote describes Bob Cratchit trying to warm himself in the cold, grim office of Scrooge. It highlights his miserable working conditions.

Analysis: The image of Cratchit trying to warm himself at the candle symbolizes his vulnerability and the harshness of his life. The candle is a weak, insufficient source of warmth, representing both his physical and emotional struggle.

Effect on the Audience: The audience would feel sympathy for Bob Cratchit, as his desperate attempt to find warmth emphasizes his poverty and the oppressive conditions under Scrooge's rule. This image contrasts sharply with Scrooge’s abundance and adds to the novella’s critique of social inequality

“I’ll give you Mr Scrooge, the Founder of the Feast!”

Context: Stave 3 – Bob Cratchit says this at the Christmas dinner, sarcastically toasting Scrooge after receiving the meagre salary from him.

Analysis: Cratchit’s sarcastic toast highlights his bitter irony. He refers to Scrooge as the “Founder of the Feast” because Scrooge is indirectly providing the meal through his miserly wages. It shows how, despite Scrooge’s oppressive behaviour, Cratchit tries to maintain a sense of respect and cheer for his family.

Effect on the Audience: The audience would likely feel a mix of sympathy and admiration for Bob Cratchit. His ability to stay positive despite Scrooge’s cruelty contrasts with Scrooge’s coldness, reinforcing the novella’s moral message about generosity and kindness.

“Dismal little cell”

Context: Stave 1 – Bob Cratchit’s working environment is described as a “dismal little cell,” reflecting the grim and oppressive conditions under Scrooge’s employment.

Analysis: The phrase “dismal little cell” highlights Bob Cratchit’s poor, cramped working conditions, emphasizing the lack of comfort or warmth in his life. The word “cell” suggests confinement, both physically and metaphorically, indicating Bob’s limited freedom and miserable existence.

Effect on the Audience: The audience would feel sympathy and sorrow for Bob Cratchit, seeing the harsh reality of his life under Scrooge’s control. This reinforces the theme of social inequality and the need for compassion and change.

“The clerk’s fire was so very much smaller that it looked like one coal.”

Context: Stave 1 – This quote describes the fire in Bob Cratchit’s office, highlighting the miserly conditions under Scrooge’s employment.

Analysis: The fire being described as “one coal” emphasizes how Scrooge provides only the bare minimum for Cratchit, symbolizing his lack of generosity and concern for his employees. The small, inadequate fire reflects the broader theme of poverty and deprivation that Cratchit faces.

Effect on the Audience: The audience would likely feel pity for Bob Cratchit, as the inadequate fire mirrors his overall lack of comfort and security. It serves as a clear contrast to Scrooge’s wealth and highlights the need for social change and empathy.

“He broke down all at once. He couldn't help it. ‘I am very sorry, sir. I am behind my time.’”

Context: Stave 1 – Bob Cratchit says this when he is late returning from Christmas Eve, apologizing to Scrooge. He breaks down due to the stress and fear of Scrooge’s wrath.

Analysis: Bob’s breakdown shows his emotional exhaustion and the immense pressure he faces under Scrooge’s harsh rule. The apology, even though he is in no way wrong, emphasizes Cratchit’s subjugation and Scrooge’s oppressive nature.

Effect on the Audience: The audience would feel empathy for Bob Cratchit, recognizing the unfairness of his treatment. This moment highlights the emotional toll Scrooge’s greed has on those around him, deepening the moral contrast between Scrooge and his employees.

“My little, little child!” cried Bob. “My little child!”

Context: Stave 3 – Bob Cratchit says this when he is mourning the loss of his son, Tiny Tim, who has passed away due to illness.

Analysis: The repetition of “little” conveys Bob’s deep sorrow and the overwhelming grief he feels for the death of his child. It highlights the fragility of life and the harsh realities that the Cratchit family faces. Bob’s emotional outburst underscores the tragedy of Tiny Tim’s death and the vulnerability of the Cratchit family.

Effect on the Audience: The audience would feel profound sympathy for Bob Cratchit, as this moment of loss emphasizes the consequences of Scrooge’s neglect and the impact of poverty on families. It reinforces the novella’s message about the importance of compassion and social responsibility.

“I am very happy,” said little Bob, “I am very happy!”

Context: Stave 3 – Bob Cratchit says this when he is celebrating Christmas with his family, despite their poverty and Tiny Tim’s frailty.

Analysis: Bob’s declaration of happiness, despite his family’s struggles, highlights his positive and optimistic nature. It contrasts sharply with Scrooge’s miserly and gloomy demeanor, demonstrating the strength of love and family bonds even in dire circumstances.

Effect on the Audience: The audience would likely feel moved by Bob’s joy, as it emphasizes the power of familial love and gratitude. It serves to underline the novella’s moral lesson about the importance of finding happiness and contentment in life’s simple pleasures, regardless of material wealth.