Acorrding to Bill Watterson, "Calvin is a name for a sixteenth-century theologian who believes in predestination. Most people assume that Calvin is based on a son of mine, or based on my childhood memory. In fact I don't have children and I was a fairly quiet, obedient kid-almost Calvin's opposite. One of the reasons that Calvin's character is fun to write is that i often don't agree with him."

He continues..."Calvin is an autobiografical in the sense that he thinks about the same issues that i do, but in this, Calvin reflects my adulthood more than my childhood. Many of Calvin's struggles are metaphors for my own. I suspect that most of us get old without growing up, and that inside every adult (sometimes not very far inside) is a bratty kid who wants everything his own way. I use Calvin as an outlet for my immaturity, as a way to keep myself curious about the natural world, as a way to ridicule my own obssesions, and as a way to comment on human nature. I wouldn't want Calvin in my house, but on paper, he helps me sort through my life and understand it."

From a cardbox box, Calvin has "invented" a duplicator, transmogrifier and a time machine. Together with Hobbes they venture into the future and jurassic times. He also invented a sport called Calvin Ball where the rules are made up as it is played. He and Hobbes always enjoy each other's company. Sometimes , Calvin wishes that he was an animal like Hobbes instead of human...


Hobbes... a not-so-stuff tiger that belongs to Calvin. He walks and talks like a human. He was caught in a tuna sandwich trap rigged by Calvin. Since the time they met, they have been real good friends. Hobbes often helps Calvin with his homework. He even tried to save Calvin from Moe, the bully. Hobbes has interesting ideas and suggestions, and is often worried about the plans Calvin makes. He is also the First Tiger in G.R.O.S.S. and contributes by drawing maps and making secret codes. Hobbes loves getting a tummy rub from Calvin and will do anything to get one. Being best friends does not mean that they never argue or fight. In fact sometimes when they don't agree, it all ends in one big struggle.

Watterson says.."Named after a seventeenth-century philosopher with a dim view of human nature, Hobbes has the patient dignity and common sense of most animals I've met. Hobbes was very much inspired by one of our cats, a gray tabby named Sprite. Sprite not only provide the long body and facial characteristics for Hobbes, she also was the model for his personality. She was goodnatured, intelligent, friendly, and enthusiastic in a sneaking up and pouncing sort of way. Sprite suggested the idea of Hobbes greeting Calvin at the door in midair at high velocity.

Watterson continued...."With most cartoon animals, the humor comes from their humanlike behavior. Hobbes stands upright and talks of course, but I try to preserve his feline side, both in physical demeanor and his attitude. His reserve and tact seem very catlike to me, along with his barely contained pride in not being human. Like Calvin, I often prefer the company of animals to people, and Hobbes is my idea of an ideal friend."