A Christmas Carol Characters
Ebenezer ScroogeThe protagonist, Scrooge is a cold, miserly creditor whose redemption to kindness and selflessness forms the arc of A Christmas Carol. Scrooge represents the Victorian rich who neglect the poor and think only of their own well-being. The most motivation Dickens provides for Scrooge's character is his depiction of him as a young boy; neglected by his peers and, it appears, by his father, the young Scrooge seemed determined to live only for himself as he aged.
Bob CratchitCratchit is Scrooge's overworked employee, a timid man afraid to stand up to his boss's demanding ways. The patriarch of a family poor in wealth but rich in love, he cares especially dearly for his crippled son, Tiny Tim. Cratchit is a symbol for the Victorian poor, good-hearted and hard-working but unable to climb out the stifling conditions of poverty.
Ghost of Christmas PastThe first ghost to visit Scrooge, the small, elderly figure represents memory.
Ghost of Christmas PresentA giant clad in robes, this ghost has 1800 brothers and a life span of one day. He represents celebration and charity.
Ghost of Christmas Yet To ComeThis solemn, silent phantom represents death, but also the presents the possibility that the future is not determined, but open to the free will of humans.
FredScrooge's nephew, Fred embodies the jollity and sharing of Christmas. He refuses to let Scrooge's "Bah! Humbug!" attitude bring him down, and is overjoyed when his uncle converts and attends his party.
Tiny TimCratchit's crippled son, Tiny Tim represents the overwhelming goodness of the Christmas spirit.
Jacob MarleyScrooge's old partner, Marley appears to Scrooge as a ghost and warns him about the dangers of being obsessed with money.
FezziwigThe young Scrooge's jolly, selfless boss.
BelleScrooge's former girlfriend, she breaks up with him because of his greed.
FanScrooge's younger sister.
A Christmas Carol Essays and Related Content
- A Christmas Carol: Major Themes
- A Christmas Carol: Essays
- A Christmas Carol: E-Text
- A Christmas Carol: Questions
- A Christmas Carol: Purchase the Novel and Related Material
- Charles Dickens: Biography
- A Christmas Carol Summary
- About A Christmas Carol
- Character List
- Major Themes
- Summary and Analysis of Stave One
- Summary and Analysis of Stave Two
- Summary and Analysis of Stave Three
- Summary and Analysis of Stave Four
- Summary and Analysis of Stave Five
- Related Links on A Christmas Carol
- Test Yourself! - Quiz 1
- Test Yourself! - Quiz 2
- Author of ClassicNote and Sources