BOB CRATCHIT
Bob Cratchit is the humble, kind-hearted, and hardworking clerk employed by Ebenezer Scrooge in the counting-house. Despite receiving a meager salary of fifteen shillings a week, Bob remains cheerful and optimistic, embodying the spirit of Christmas even in the face of poverty and hardship. He is depicted as wearing threadbare clothes, including a white comforter instead of a greatcoat, and enjoys simple pleasures such as sliding on Cornhill and playing games with his family.

Bob is the devoted patriarch of the Cratchit family, living with his wife and several children in a modest four-roomed house. He is especially dedicated to his youngest son, Tiny Tim, whose health and happiness are central to Bob’s concerns. Bob is known for his patience, mildness, and gratitude, striving to maintain peace and joy within his family despite their financial struggles. He leads the family in their Christmas celebrations, proposes a toast to Scrooge as the "Founder of the Feast," and is responsible for bringing Tiny Tim home from church.

Throughout the story, Bob’s good nature and devotion to his family are highlighted, particularly in moments of hardship, such as when the family is deeply affected by Tiny Tim’s death. Nevertheless, Bob’s optimism and appreciation for the spirit of Christmas persist. After celebrating Christmas, Bob is late to work, prompting Scrooge—transformed by the events of the story—to surprise him with a raise in salary and an offer of support. Scrooge also arranges for a large turkey to be sent to the Cratchit home as a generous gesture, further improving the family’s circumstances.

In summary, Bob Cratchit is portrayed as a poor but loving and grateful father, whose kindness, humility, and unwavering devotion to his family and the spirit of Christmas ultimately inspire Scrooge’s transformation and generosity.