Paradoxical Characters In A Tale Of Two Cities

Paradoxical Characters The novel A Tale of Two Cities, written by Charles Dickens, takes place in London and Paris during and before the French Revolution. Dickens illustrates how the French aristocracy oppresses the French peasantry before the Revolution, and how in time, the peasantry returns the favor to the aristocracy. In the novel, Dickens often portrays the idea of resurrection through paradoxical characters. Jerry Cruncher and Sydney Carton demonstrate their paradoxical natures through the theme of resurrection. Jerry Cruncher, a paradoxical character, portrays the theme of resurrection through his multiple professions. Cruncher practices the profession of grave digging by night to make some extra money. For instance, when young Jerry

Carton exhibits his selflessness by telling Lucie that he would die for anyone that she loves. For example, Sydney Carton shows his selflessness for Lucie saying, “For you, and for any dear to you, I would do anything. I would embrace any sacrifice for you and for those dear to you. And when you see your own bright beauty springing up anew at your feet, think now and then that there is a man who would give his life, to keep a life you love beside you” (179). Sydney promises Lucie that he would die for her or even her loved ones. Carton portrays the theme of resurrection, as he dies and lives again through Sydney Darnay, Lucie’s son. Be that as it may, Sydney Carton also shows selfishness and hopelessness. Carton demonstrates his bitterness when conversing with Darnay after his trial. For instance, while talking to Darnay, Carton says, “As to me, the greatest desire I have, is to forget that I belong to it. It has no good in it for me – except wine like this – nor I for it” (97). Carton tells Darnay how he does not care for himself, and reveals his hopelessness for living a good life. Carton demonstrates his paradoxical nature through his grief with himself and carelessness, however he shows that he also does want to fix his life for the better even if that means