poverty

• "They were not a handsome family; they were not well dressed...but they were happy, grateful, pleased with one another." GCP S3


  • The description emphasizes that material wealth is not the only measure of happiness. The Cratchits’ joy comes from their love and unity.
  • Dickens highlights the moral poverty of Scrooge’s cold, selfish life compared to the emotional richness of the Cratchits.
• "The clerk's fire was so very much smaller that it looked like one coal." S1


  • The meagre fire symbolizes Scrooge's stinginess and lack of concern for others. Bob's suffering reflects Scrooge's indifference to the well-being of those who depend on him.
  • Underscores the mistreatment of the working class and highlights Dickens attempt to bring this to the surface to those watching during that time.
• "Are there no prisons? Are there no workhouses?" S1


  • Scrooge dismisses charity, reflecting the belief that poverty is a personal failing rather than a societal issue.
  • workhouses and prisons were where most who were on the brink of financial depletion would end up. Dickens attempts to accuse the upper classes of their ignorance to this issue.
• ""If these shadows remain unaltered by the future, none will find him." referring to Tiny Tim 


  • Tiny Tim’s frailty is a direct result of his family’s poverty. The Cratchits lack the resources for proper medical care or adequate nutrition to improve his condition.
  • The Ghost of Christmas Present reveals that Tiny Tim’s death is inevitable if Scrooge and society fail to change. His condition reflects the reality of Victorian children.
• "brave with ribbons" S3


  • Adding ribbons to their clothing symbolizes their attempt to look festive and dignified for Christmas, even if their means are limited.
  • "brave" highlights the Cratchits' determination to create a joyful atmosphere for their family.