A Tale of Two Cities (A Story of the French Revolution)

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About the Book A Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens is a historical novel written in the mid- 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, the story opens with an exploration of the social and political turmoil of the time, introducing key themes such as resurrection, sacrifice, and the dichotomy between oppression and liberty. The narrative begins with the character Mr. Jarvis Lorry's journey, who is on a mission to retrieve Dr. Alexandre Manette, an imprisoned former physician, who has been "recalled to life" after year of suffering.

The opening of the novel vividly depicts the contrasting conditions in England and France, emphasizing the hardships faced by common people. A detailed scene unfolds as Mr. Lorry, traveling on a Dover encounters a mysterious messenger who brings him a message related to Dr. Manette. As Mr. Lorry arrives in Paris, we sense ominous undertones of the Revolution as Madame Defarge's wine shop symbolizes the brewing discontent. The narrative hints at the challenges ahead as intertwine in a story of personal and political upheaval, setting the stage for the unfolding drama that explores the quest for justice in the face of tyranny.

Introduction The life of Charles Dickens is as fascinating and picturesque as one of his own novels. Born in humble circumstances and thrown presently into abject poverty, he nevertheless became famous while still a very young man; before he had reached middle age he was the best known novelist in Europe; and when he died, not yet an old man, he was mourned all over the world. Perhaps not the least charming thing about him was his unaffected and sincere delight in his own popularity. He loved his public almost as if they had been his children, and in the very height of his career was as sensitive to praise and blame as any boy. He never grew conceited, he never forgot or despised the surroundings and people he had known in his youth; and perhaps just for this reason he retained to the end the same keen pleasure in his success.