Tale of Two Cities Analys

Tale of Two Cities Analys

Government has been an essential part to any civilization for

as long as human kind has existed. People who disagree with the

government have also existed for just as long. Whether the the

government was so simple that the leader was the strongest in

the tribe, or whether the government was so complex that it

involved thousands of people to make one decision, it always

was challenged and eventually changed. The means of change are

quite diverse. Assassination, protests, war, petitions, and

more are amongst the large list of means for governmental

reform. Revolution has also been a frequent method to try to

achieve the desired change. Revolutions have made profound

impacts in history, for both the better and for the worse.

Charles Dickens is among those who believe revolution is not a

efficient means for change of government, or social reform. His

classic novel, A Tale Of Two Cities, clearly and profoundly

shows the negative impacts of revolting against the government,

to the ! reader. He also shows the reader that there is a

better way to improve the government. That better way is illustrated

through Sydney Carton. He not only becomes an unexpected hero in A Tale

Of Two Cities, but he also symbolizes Charles Dickens solution to

achieving social reform.

Sydney Carton first entered the story as a lonely man.

Appearing rather insecure and having low self esteem, his role

in the story was unknown to the reader. He seemed to only be

focused on helping others. One late night with his colleague,

Mr. Stryver, Cartons basically pathetic demeanor was

confronted, ^Carton, addressed his friend... ^your way is, and

always was, a lame way. You summon no energy and purpose.

(Dickens, A Tale Of Two Cities, 95). Then later that night ,

Climbing into a high chamber in a well of houses, he threw

himself down in his clothes on a neglected bed, and its pillow

was wet with wasted tears (97). Both are examples of Cartons

character. Most view him as a loser. Mr. Stryver, with the

assistance of a little alcohol, clearly made that point, and

sadly enough Carton realized it. At that moment he finally

realized who he was becoming, and it depressed him beyond

words. At that moment a new Carton emerged. This new Carton was

someone who cared! for others. He wanted people to think that

his actions were motivated by simply wanting to make a difference in

the lives of those he cared for. One person he deeply cared for was

Lucie Manette. She eventually became his motivation to change and

renew his own life.