It was the best of times, it was the worst of times

Definition

This phrase opens Charles Dickens' novel 'A Tale of Two Cities' and sets the stage for a narrative steeped in contrasts and dualities. It encapsulates the themes of hope and despair, prosperity and poverty, as well as love and hate, emphasizing the complexity of human experience during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The opening line is famous for its parallel structure, showcasing both extremes of human experience and establishing a rhythmic balance.
2. The phrase reflects Dickens' commentary on the social conditions of the time, contrasting the affluence of some with the struggles of others.
3. This line serves as a thematic foundation for exploring issues like class disparity, revolution, and redemption throughout the novel.
4. Dickens uses parallelism not only in this line but throughout the text to emphasize recurring themes of duality and conflict.
5. The juxtaposition found in this phrase creates a sense of irony that permeates the story, drawing readers into a world filled with paradoxes.

Review Questions

• How does Dickens utilize parallelism in the opening line to convey the themes of his novel?
  • Dickens employs parallelism in the phrase 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times' to effectively convey contrasting experiences that reflect the overarching themes of his novel. This structure reinforces the idea that life is multifaceted, filled with both hope and despair, thereby setting up the reader to understand the complex social landscape during the French Revolution. The balance created through this technique highlights the irony inherent in these dualities, inviting deeper contemplation on societal conditions.
• In what ways does this famous opening line establish a tone that is reflective of Dickens' perspective on society during the French Revolution?
  • The tone established by the opening line is one of ambiguity and complexity, reflecting Dickens' nuanced perspective on society during a time of upheaval. By stating it was 'the best' and 'the worst,' he suggests that progress and suffering coexist, which invites readers to grapple with these contradictions. This tone sets a critical lens on social injustices while simultaneously hinting at potential for change and improvement, ultimately shaping how readers engage with characters and events throughout the narrative.
• Analyze how the themes introduced by this key phrase connect to broader historical contexts and their implications for character development in 'A Tale of Two Cities.'
  • The themes introduced by 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times' resonate deeply with the historical context of the French Revolution, highlighting issues such as class struggle and revolutionary fervor. Characters like Charles Darnay and Sydney Carton embody these dualities; their journeys reflect personal transformation amidst societal chaos. This phrase serves as a lens through which we can analyze their choices and moral dilemmas, showcasing how individual lives are interwoven with larger historical forces while underscoring themes of sacrifice, redemption, and resilience.

Related terms

Antithesis: A rhetorical device that contrasts opposing ideas within a balanced structure, often highlighting contradictions.

Juxtaposition:

The placement of two contrasting elements side by side to highlight their differences and enhance meaning.

Tone: The author's attitude toward the subject, which can significantly influence how readers perceive the narrative.