A Tale of Two Cities reminded me very much of Jane Austen’s Persuasion. With the “notorious” three-line or up to half-page sentences in length. When turning to Charles Dickens after reading more recent novels you have to get adjusted to the long sentences and “old” words, that are not often used nowadays. Otherwise, I found the novel pretty straight forward. I was told that the book was difficult to understand what is happening exactly and that maybe I should watch the movie first to get a grasp. However, it isn’t that bad, especially if you have read any old books at all.
And honestly, I don’t want to give a synopsis because it is THAT complicated enough…
However, I would like to discuss a few of the characters in regard to ethics (there is some spoilings). Charles Dickens honorable presents the up and downs of European ethics. Too often modern schooling likes to present only the ugly side, and it is a small part too, of Europe. Sydney Carton displays the self-sacrificing trait present in many notable and famous Europeans for a cause or love. Charles Evremonde, Lucie Manette’s husband, presents the side that wishes to avoid corruption and abuse of the lower class; while his brother, the Marquis Evrémonde, represents the corrupt and cruel, wherein this story he represents the corruption of the French Aristocracy.
The innkeeper’s wife and lead character of the French Revolution in the story, Madame Defarge, represents the chaotic and unscrupulous nature of the revolution through her bloodlust and questionable morals. While her husband Ernest, who did share much of her nature, displayed the people of the revolution who realized that the revolution had gone too far. He did not wish the innocent to die with those who, really, did need to be removed; but who was often dragged along by the group, or the “flood” of the revolution that could not be stopped after the dam broke.
Lucie Manette, with that of her father and the banker Jarvis Lorry, represents the selfless caring nature deep within many Europeans.
A Tale of Two Cities is a gripping story of love and consequences. A peek into 19th century Europe. And rich content that invokes the mind to question and explore possibilities. A must-read for any book lover.
