The Cratchitts

Question 1

“Cratchitt’s wife, dressed out, but poorly.” (p.35)

Answer 1

Poor in that they can’t afford expensive clothes, but optimistic and proud as she still makes an effort.

Question 2

“Bob served it out with beaming looks.” (p.38)

Answer 2

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This metaphor shows Bob’s nurturing nature in that he shows happiness to his family.

Question 3

“The family display of glass: two tumblers and a custard cup without a handle.” (p.38)

Answer 3

This shows how limited the family is financially. The tone of the narrative voice is bathetic and this is a good example of the way bathos is used by Dickens to portray the Cratchitts.

Question 4

“Not coming up on Christmas Day.” (p.36)

“God bless us!” (p.38)

Answer 4

Both of these quotations show that the Cratchitts are religious. They both allow Dickens to reinforce the idea that family and religion are closely linked.

Question 5

“Why bless your heart alive.” (p.35)

Answer 5

This metonym shows how caring the Cratchitts are and how they are kind and supportive to each other.

Question 6

What quote does Dickens use to highlight that the Cratchits aren’t special but their family love strengthens them and makes them happy?

Answer 6

• “nothing of high mark”

- “happy, grateful, pleased with one another, and contented with the time”