Key Quotes - The Cratchit Family

"Bob held his wife’s hand, as if he had been guarding her from the worries of the world."

Context: Stave 3 – During the Cratchit family’s Christmas celebration, Bob shows tenderness and affection toward his wife, despite their poverty

Analysis: This quote reflects the Cratchits' ability to find joy and warmth in their family life, despite their financial struggles. Bob’s protective gesture symbolizes his desire to shield his family from the hardships they face

Effect on the Reader: The audience is touched by the Cratchit family’s resilience and love, feeling a strong sense of empathy for their situation. This moment serves as a stark contrast to Scrooge's isolated and cold existence

"We are very grateful, very grateful indeed, for your kindness. God bless you!"

Context: Stave 5 – The Cratchit family expresses their gratitude after Scrooge anonymously provides them with a generous Christmas gift, including the funds for Tiny Tim’s medical care

Analysis: The Cratchit family’s gratitude highlights their humble nature and capacity for kindness, even when they have so little. Their sincere thankfulness emphasizes the theme of generosity and the impact of small acts of kindness

Effect on the Reader: The audience feels the emotional impact of Scrooge’s transformation as they see the Cratchits' joy and relief. It reminds the audience of the power of generosity and its ability to bring positive change to lives that seem hopeless

“The mother had been up all night, making the pudding, the potatoes, and the stuffing; she had made sure there was enough for everyone.”

Context: Stave 3 – This quote describes Mrs. Cratchit preparing the Christmas feast for her family. Despite their financial strain, she works hard to provide for her loved ones and make the holiday special

Analysis: The quote showcases Mrs. Cratchit’s tireless devotion to her family. Her hard work contrasts with her family’s poverty, emphasizing the love and effort she invests in creating a joyful Christmas despite the hardships they face

Effect on the Reader: The audience feels sympathy for Mrs. Cratchit, who works selflessly to maintain a sense of normalcy and love within the family. Her actions highlight the resilience and sacrifices often made by those in lower social classes

"Brave in ribbons!"

Context: Stave 3 – Mrs. Cratchit says this while admiring her daughter, who is dressed up for Christmas, despite their financial difficulties. The ribbons refer to her modest, yet carefully chosen, Christmas attire

Analysis: The phrase "Brave in ribbons" is a reflection of the Cratchit family's effort to make Christmas special, even with their limited resources. The word "brave" conveys the family's resilience, as they maintain a sense of pride and joy despite their poverty

Effect on the Reader: The audience feels sympathy and admiration for the Cratchit family’s ability to make the best of their circumstances. It emphasizes the theme of perseverance and joy in the face of hardship, making their happiness all the more poignant

"The little Cratchits, who were not so many as the children in a picture, but were still as a statue."

Context: Stave 3 – This is a description of the Cratchit children, particularly how they sit still and silently, waiting for Christmas dinner. The quote highlights their innocence and the peacefulness they bring to the scene

Analysis: The comparison of the children to statues emphasizes their quiet and serene demeanour. The lack of abundance in the Cratchit household, particularly the smaller number of children compared to the "children in a picture," evokes sympathy, especially when compared to the wealthier families of the time

Effect on the Reader: The audience feels a deep sympathy for the Cratchit children, as their stillness and simplicity show how they are not distracted by material wants. It enhances the sense of humility and purity within the Cratchit family, making their poverty seem even more heart-breaking

“I’ll tell you what, my dear: I don’t think we shall ever see him again.”

Context: Stave 4 – Mrs. Cratchit says this when she talks about Tiny Tim’s health, expressing concern over his future after his health continues to deteriorate. She does not believe he will survive if something is not done soon

Analysis: The quote shows the Cratchit family's grim realization about Tiny Tim’s condition. The moment is a representation of their vulnerability and the precariousness of their situation, given their lack of financial resources for medical care

Effect on the Reader: The audience feels sadness and empathy for the Cratchit family, particularly Tiny Tim, knowing the risks they face. The quote underscores the social issues of the time, such as poverty affecting healthcare and survival, and encourages the audience to be more compassionate and aware of inequality