A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens | Book 1, Chapter 1

Course Hero Literature Instructor Russell Jaffe provides an in-depth summary and analysis of Book 1, Chapter 1 of Charles Dickens's novel A Tale of Two Cities.


Charles Dickens's classic novel A Tale of Two Cities traces the ramifications of the French Revolution.

In typical Dickensian style, the novel follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate the complexities of contemporary life. This was a period characterized by tremendous poverty, class stratification, and political ferment—much as it is today.

The stories include that of a young woman and her father who are reunited after he is freed from an extended sentence in the notorious Bastille prison. We also learn the tale of a man accused of treason. These narratives lend a personal perspective to the societal upheaval of the period.

Laden with stories of murder and thwarted ambition, the narrative investigates the real-world consequences of revolution.

Famous British writer Charles Dickens wrote A Tale of Two Cities in 1859. His humble beginnings, during which he faced poverty and abandonment, became themes in many of his works, including A Tale of Two Cities. Dickens's piquant observations about how societal phenomena manifest in the lives of everyday people continue to resonate for this reason.

This important historical fiction novel contains many powerful themes, including resurrection, as when Lucie saves her father and then her husband from prison and death. Injustice is another, as when Dr. Manette is imprisoned for defending a peasant girl and Charles for his uncle’s crimes. We also see a powerful invocation of violence, as when the peasants take their revenge on the aristocracy. Other symbols include thread and knitting representing unity and vengeance, France representing chaos and violence, and England symbolizing order and safety.


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