Free Sample Essays > European Literature
Tale Of Two Cities
seems to be the point where the readers"'", as well as other characters"'", views of Sidney Carton change from pure pity to sympathy, compassion, and even a liking for him. Sidney"'"s true self can be seen described by the seamstress before she and him are both killed when she addresses Carton as '"'brave and generous friend.'"'
The things that Sidney says to Lucie are one reason that makes the reader like him. Actions, however, can speak louder than words which can be seen when Carton makes the ultimate sacrifice at the end of the story. This wasn"'"t a total surprise because of Dickens"'" uses of symbolism and foreshadowing. Carton foreshadows his own death during the end of his conversation with Lucie Manette which makes the reader like him even more as they anticipate what he will do. '"'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…Think now and then that there is a man who would give his life, to keep a life you love beside you (Dickens, 156)!'"'
The chapter entitled Darkness seems to '"'seal the deal'"' in terms of Carton deciding that it is necessary to make the sacrifice. '"'He traced the thought in his mind to its possible consequences. His first impression was confirmed. "'"It is best,"'" he said, finally resolved, "'"that these people should know there is such a man here as I."'" (Dickens, 331)'"' It is not exactly clear who the people referred to by Carton are, but it is possible that they represent all of the people that Carton has met in his life including Lucie Manette. When Carton makes this statement, he is declaring that he will make himself remembered, preparing the reader to expect Carton to do something extraordinary. The chapter title itself seems to be symbolic of Carton making the decision to end his life. Dickens uses heavy symbolism throughout the novel which can be picked up if one close reads, a skill involving a close analysis of the particular words and phrases that Dickens uses in his characterization.
As Carton prepares for his sacrifice, Dickens also prepares the reader for it. Carton buys some secret chemicals from a chemist"'"s shop and blackmails John Basard, the brother of Miss Pross. While it isn"'"t known what the chemicals are or what the stipulations of the agreement with Mr. Barsard are, it is seen by the reader that Carton has truly decided to make his sacrifice when he gives his papers enabling him to leave the country to Mr. Lorry and tells him to keep them and to take everyone and leave as soon as Sidney"'"s seat was occupied. While Mr. Lorry doesn"'"t question this because he just assumes that Sidney is referring to himself, after looking back, one realizes that he was referring to Mr. Darnay who would be occupying Sidney"'"s seat, dressed as Sidney. Dickens doesn"'"t stop there, however, and uses even more symbolism to further advance ones"'" feelings towards [next page]