John Clark on Bob Cratchit, Lazarus, and American Capitalism

"One of the rewards of great literature is that each new reading reveals aspects that were somehow previously hidden. This idea struck me recently as I was re-acquainting myself with Dickens' A Christmas Carol, and I noticed the similarities between Bob Cratchit and Lazarus.

"Both poor men hoped for the scraps of rich men - Lazarus awaited crumbs from the rich man's table, while Bob Cratchit's paychecks consisted of the fifteen shillings per week that somehow escaped Scrooge's tight fist. Bob Cratchit had six children - one of whom was dying, which, as the story makes clear, was a direct result of his poverty. Lazarus had no family; he died alone - a result of the rich man's indifference.

"The rich men were not alone in their fault, nor was apathy confined to the upper class: no one else seemed to notice, either. Others could have helped Lazarus: surely they saw the dogs licking his sores. Others could have helped Bob Cratchit: did no one else take note of Tiny Tim's well-worn crutch?"

In a recent commentary, writer John Clark reflected on the similarities between Bob Cratchit and Lazarus and on the difference between a market wage and a living wage and their relationship to the fundamental dignity and worth of others.

To access Mr. Clark's complete post, please visit:

National Catholic Register: Blogs: John Clark: Bob Cratchit, Lazarus and American Capitalism (24 DEC 18)