Point: his relationship with his father, Bob Cratchit, is another example of the pathos that surrounds his character

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T T u h s

Tiny Tim’s relationship with Bob is another example of the pathos which surrounds his character, particularly in the aftermath of Tim’s death. The poignant image of Bob Cratchit walking “slower” than he used to due to the absence of “Tiny Tim upon his shoulder” evokes pity from the reader and establishes a sombre tone to the remainder of the stave. This may perhaps be because Tiny Tim personifies innocence, and so his death is perceived as a loss of innocence from the novella.

Continued in next flashcard

d n d

Therefore, when it is revealed in the final stave that Tiny Tim “did not die” the reader most likely feels relief, as this acts as a restoration of order within the novella.

‘M l, l c!’ c B. ‘M l c!’

“‘My little, little child!’ cried Bob. ‘My little child!’” Dickens uses epimone (the repetition of a word or phrase to emphasise a point) in order to further the frail and weak characterisation of Tiny Tim. This causes the reader to sympathise more with the situation as they realise the tragic nature of the death of a child. The reader understands the strong emotions Bob must be feeling, as he is at a loss for words and can describe Tim as nothing but “little”. The term connotes ideas of innocence and helplessness, furthering the injustice of the situation.

h t p s h i t c… t r u C d w m l b w, a b m s.

Bob Cratchit reflects on how Tiny Tim told him he “hoped the people saw him in the church… to remember upon Christmas day who made lame beggars walk, and blind men see.” This allusion to Jesus highlights Tiny Tim’s role as a moral compass within the text. He acts as a Dickens’ mouthpiece of goodness, similar to how Jesus acted as God’s messenger to impart the importance of morality to humanity. This phrase also emphasises the Christmas message of tolerance and hope.