A tale of two cities



Resurrection



In “A Tale of Two Cities”, we can find deep symbolism, and complex themes that are an integral part played by the book to capture the reader's attention, and fill one with a sense of intrigue. One of the most recognizable is the theme of resurrection.

 Dickens believed that there is always the possibility for redemption, and transformation, both between individuals, and within society as a whole. The most notable personal transformation that occurs in this story is Sydney Carton's metamorphosis from a lazy drunk into a heroic man that  sacrifices his life to save his friend. Not only Carton die for others, but also he is metaphorically reborn in their hearts.In addition, in a Tale of Two Cities, many characters are “reborn”, meaning that they have had a new chance at life. For instance, Dr. Manette is the first person to experience resurrection. He was 18 years of solitary confinement,and then he is released by the French government where he is “recalled to life”.Another example  in which someone is “reborn” involves Darnay. At the beginning of the book Darnay was   indicted for treason in England, where he   is thought to be a spy. However, Carton bravely sacrifices his own life for Darnay, and he  is given an extra chance at life, that is why he is “reborn”.

 On a societal level, Dickens uses the French Revolution to comment on the possibility of cultural and political transformation. Even though Dickens spends the bulk of his novel detailing the horrible acts, both of the aristocracy and the rebelling peasants. Eventually, Dickens  wishes  for France a better  and a freer society. Futhermore,the death of the old regime in France prepares the way for beautiful and peaceful Paris that Carton supposedly envisions from the guillotine. Moreover, Dickens pays attention to the extraordinary violence of the French Revolution where  aristocrats and peasants  committed atrocities , he ultimately expresses the belief that this violence will  transform the society into a better one, or a new one.

Finally, all these resurrections are surrounded with religious language that compare Carton's sacrifice of his own life for others' sins to Christ's sacrifice in the cross.At the end, the immortal words run through Carton's head while he nears the guillotine “I am the Resurrection and the Life”we are assured that Carton, by his death, was also raised to a new life; where perhaps one day he will again see those whom he gave all for.

In conclusion,Charles Dickens employs symbolism in order to give a deeper meaning to his writing which is an essential element in the structure of the novel.