Summary:
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens is a historical novel set during the late 18th century, focusing on events leading up to and during the French Revolution. The story revolves around London and Paris, depicting the violent turmoil of the revolution while exploring themes of resurrection, sacrifice, and justice.
The novel follows Dr. Manette, who is released from the Bastille after eighteen years of unjust imprisonment. His daughter, Lucie Manette, falls in love with Charles Darnay, a French aristocrat who renounces his family’s oppressive legacy. However, he is later arrested and sentenced to death by revolutionaries in Paris.
The novel’s climax highlights Sydney Carton, a dissolute English lawyer who redeems himself by switching places with Darnay at the guillotine, sacrificing his life for Lucie’s happiness. His final words, “It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done”, symbolize selflessness and redemption.
The novel masterfully contrasts the chaos of revolution with the hope for renewal, making it one of Dickens’ most powerful works.
Score: 0
Attempted: 0/10
Subscribe
| Question | Answer |
| Book Name | A Tale of Two Cities |
| Author | Charles Dickens |
| Year Published | 1859 |
| Genre | Historical Fiction |
| Setting | London and Paris (1775–1793) |
| Main Themes | Revolution, Sacrifice, Resurrection |
| Main Characters | Dr. Manette, Lucie Manette, Charles Darnay, Sydney Carton, Madame Defarge |
| Symbolism | The guillotine (oppression), Broken wine cask (bloodshed), Resurrection theme (new beginnings) |
| Literary Significance | One of Dickens’ most famous works; explor |