A Christmas Carol: Characters and Summary
Characters in A Christmas Carol
Ebenezer Scrooge
Scrooge is portrayed as a selfish, greedy, and stingy individual who dislikes Christmas because he associates it with spending money. He is described as having a cold and unkind face, a pointed nose, red eyes, and thin blue lips. In his youth, he had dark hair, but it has since turned white.
Jacob Marley
Jacob Marley was Scrooge’s best friend and business partner. Their company was named “Scrooge and Marley.” Like Scrooge, he was stingy. He died seven years prior to the events of the story.
Bob Cratchit
Bob Cratchit is Scrooge’s employee. He is a kind and good-hearted person who struggles financially. He has a sick child and enjoys Christmas. (Clerk)
Scrooge’s Nephew
Scrooge’s nephew is the son of Scrooge’s sister. He has a family, loves Christmas, and invites his uncle to Christmas dinner.
Chapter 1 Summary
This chapter introduces Scrooge, the main character. He lives in a dark and cold building where he once resided with Jacob Marley. They co-owned a business called Scrooge and Marley and employed a clerk named Bob Cratchit. One morning before Christmas, Scrooge’s nephew visits him at work to invite him to Christmas dinner, but Scrooge declines due to his dislike of Christmas. Cratchit asks if he can have Christmas off to spend with his family, and Scrooge reluctantly agrees, implying he will dock his pay.
Chapter 4 Summary
Scrooge encounters the ghost of Jacob Marley, who explains that he wants to help Scrooge avoid a similar fate. Marley reveals that he is burdened by a long chain, symbolizing his lack of compassion during his life. He warns Scrooge that his own chain is growing longer. Marley informs Scrooge that three ghosts will visit him to guide him toward redemption. The first ghost will arrive at 12 o’clock, followed by the second and third on subsequent nights. Scrooge is frightened by this prospect.
Book Summary
The story revolves around Scrooge, a miserly old man who despises Christmas. He had a business with his deceased best friend, Jacob Marley, and employs Bob Cratchit. Marley’s ghost visits Scrooge to help him become a better person by sending him three ghosts. The Ghost of Christmas Past reminds him of his childhood and past Christmases, the Ghost of Christmas Present shows him the Cratchit family’s Christmas and the conditions of the poor, and the Ghost of Christmas Future reveals what will happen if he continues on his current path, including his lonely death. Scrooge is given a new chance to change, and he ultimately transforms into a generous and kind-hearted person who helps others.