A Tale of Two Cities (World Literature Library)

Author: [British] Charles Dickens, Song Zhaolin
Publisher:
Publication Date: 2005-10-01
Features: This is one of the world's greatest critical realist masterpieces and also one of Charles Dickens' works with the most intricate and thrilling plots. The novel is set against the backdrop of the French Revolution of the 18th century, connecting the two major cities of Paris and London in its story. It narrates the filled-with-love-and-adventure experiences of Dr. Manette's family. Interwoven are the cruelty of the nobility, the anger of the people, and the trial of spies. A Tale of Two Cities profoundly depicts the increasingly corrupt European aristocracy under the feudal system of the 18th century, vividly exposing the long-standing atrocities of the nobility in harming the people and trampling on human lives. Dickens vividly portrays the miserable lives of the common people. The people lived in hardship, helplessness, hunger and cold, plagued by poverty, illness, and constant oppression. They harbored a deep-seated hatred for the nobility, which ultimately led to the French Revolution that overthrew the regime and fought for freedom. In times of social unrest, relations between Britain and France grew tense, and people frequently traveling between the two countries were often suspected of being spies. In the impoverished Saint Antoine district of Paris, many poor people gathered. The tavern became the headquarters for the "gentlemen" of the peasants. In secret, they discussed strategies, recruited soldiers, and plotted to overthrow the government. The cruel Evrémonde brothers were infamous for their reckless behavior and oppression of the people. Charles, a member of the Evrémonde family, bore the historical guilt of his family. Charles and Sidney shared many similarities, even falling in love with the same woman. For the happiness of the heroine Lucy, Sidney was willing to sacrifice his own life. Dr. Manette, in a daze, encountered a mysterious fate, and Number 105 of the North Tower held secrets. A Tale of Two Cities profoundly depicts the turbulent historical background and the sacrifices of romantic love for historical reality.