The Cratchits Function

• The Cratchits give us an insight into what life was like for the poor in Victorian England
• The Cratchits embody the values of Christmas: family, community, empathy, gratitude and Christmas spirit
• Tiny Tim becomes a symbol of Scrooge's selfishness and cruelty, as well as hope for his transformation
• Dickens uses the Cratchits to humanise the poor and illustrate the direct (and personal) consequences of selfishness
• The Cratchits are rich in love and provide a contrast to Scrooge who lacks love and connection