Charles Dickens' A Tale Of Two Cities

Definition

A Tale Of Two Cities is a historical novel written by Charles Dickens, first published in 1859, set during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution. The story contrasts the lives of characters in London and Paris, exploring themes of resurrection, sacrifice, and the effects of social injustice, providing insight into the socio-political climate of the 19th century and how revolution can stem from oppression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The opening line 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times' sets the stage for contrasting experiences of wealth and poverty during the French Revolution.
2. The character of Sydney Carton undergoes a transformation throughout the novel, ultimately sacrificing himself for the happiness of others, which highlights themes of redemption.
3. The novel critiques the class inequalities prevalent in both France and England, depicting how these disparities contribute to social unrest.
4. Dickens uses historical events and figures to ground his narrative, illustrating how real-life events affect individual lives.
5. A Tale Of Two Cities remains one of Dickens' most famous works, often studied for its rich character development and exploration of moral dilemmas amid chaos.

Review Questions

• How does Dickens use the characters in A Tale Of Two Cities to illustrate the impact of social inequality during the French Revolution?
  • In A Tale Of Two Cities, Dickens uses characters like Charles Darnay and Sydney Carton to reflect on social inequality. Darnay represents the privileged class while Carton embodies the struggles of those marginalized by society. Through their interactions and experiences, Dickens reveals how class divisions lead to conflict and ultimately contribute to the upheaval seen during the French Revolution. The contrasting lives of these characters serve as a critique of societal structures that perpetuate injustice.
• Discuss how A Tale Of Two Cities reflects the broader political developments in 19th-century Europe, particularly concerning revolution.
  • A Tale Of Two Cities encapsulates the spirit of revolution that characterized 19th-century Europe. By portraying the upheaval caused by the French Revolution, Dickens draws parallels to contemporary issues faced by England, including class struggles and demands for reform. The novel's depiction of violence and chaos serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of unchecked oppression and highlights how political developments can lead to drastic societal changes. Through this lens, Dickens emphasizes that revolutions are often rooted in deep-seated inequalities.
• Evaluate how Charles Dickens' portrayal of sacrifice in A Tale Of Two Cities reflects the complexities of human morality during times of political upheaval.
  • In A Tale Of Two Cities, Dickens intricately weaves themes of sacrifice into his narrative to examine human morality amidst political turmoil. The character Sydney Carton's ultimate sacrifice for love underscores profound moral questions about duty, redemption, and selflessness. This act not only signifies personal growth but also illustrates how individual choices can have far-reaching implications during chaotic times. By highlighting such complexities, Dickens encourages readers to consider the moral responsibilities that accompany revolutionary ideals and societal change.

Related terms

French Revolution:

A period of radical social and political change in France from 1789 to 1799, marked by the overthrow of the monarchy and rise of radical republicanism.

Social Criticism: The practice of analyzing and critiquing societal norms and injustices, often highlighted in literature to raise awareness and provoke change.

Class Struggle: The tension and conflict that arises from the differing interests and struggles between social classes, particularly between the bourgeoisie and proletariat.