A tale of two cities (theme of
A tale of two cities (theme ofReflection of Theme of Resurrection
In A Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens uses a variety of themes,
including, revenge, revolution, fate, imprisonment and more. Though
these are very important themes, and were integral elements of this
novel, resurrection served as the main theme aside from the obvious one
which is revolution. The reason I chose resurrection instead of
revolution, is because it is applicable outside of this novels setting
(though Dickens made some very good points about mob-mentality). It is
also important to note that the theme of a second chance, and sacrifice
are closely tied into resurrection.
The phrase "recalled to life" sounds the first note in the theme of
resurrection with Dr. Manette's release from the Bastille after 18
years of solitary confinement, and sets Dickens' plot in motion. The
secret papers left in Manette's cell lead directly to the novel's
climax, Charles Darnay's sentence to die.
Cruncher's grave robbing graphically illustrates the theme of
resurrection: he literally raises people from the dead. One of the
plot's biggest surprises is based on Cruncher's uunsuccesful attempt to
unearthed the body of Roger Cly, the spy who testified with John Barsad
against Charles Darnay. In France, years after his graveyard
expedition, Cruncher discloses that Cly's coffin contained only stones
and dirt. This information enables Sydney Carton to force John Barsad,
Cly's partner, into a plot to save Charles Darnay's life.
Another important, but easily overlooked example of resurrection is
when Dr. Manette grows confidence in himself and becomes the leader of
the group. Dr. Manette triumphs over his past life and has a sort of
rebirth.
The best example of resurrection in the entire book, is also partly
ironic in that Sydney...
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