In Charles Dickens’ novella A Christmas Carol, the character referred to as Old Scratch is actually a colloquial term for the devil. Although Old Scratch does not directly appear in the story, his essence is captured through the character of Ebenezer Scrooge.
Scrooge is often depicted as a miserly and selfish man, embodying many traits associated with a lack of compassion, generosity, and warmth—qualities that are often associated with a devilish nature. The term ‘Old Scratch’ serves to highlight the darkness in Scrooge’s character before his transformation, suggesting that he is in league with the devil due to his greedy ways and disregard for the well-being of others.
Throughout the story, as Scrooge undergoes his haunting journey with the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, he learns the importance of kindness, love, and community, ultimately shedding his ‘Old Scratch’ persona for one of goodwill and benevolence. Therefore, while Old Scratch is not a character that appears in the plot, the reference encapsulates the theme of redemption and the potential for change within every individual.