Major Themes in A Tale of Two Cities

Resurrection and Transformation The novel A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens illustrates the possibility of transformation and resurrection. Dickens declares that resurrection and transformation are possible on a personal level, as well as a social level. The death/sacrifice of Sidney Carton not only restores the peaceful life of Charles Darnay but also of Lucie Manette and Dr. Manette and Sidney Carton himself. Carton rises to the status of heroism by providing himself with execution, becoming a Christ-like figure who restores and rescues the lives of others by his death. Even he gives meaning and value to his life. At the end of the novel, the narrative suggests that the life of Sidney Carton, like Christ’s life, will be resurrected as Sidney Carton gains immortality in the hearts of people whom he died for. Moreover, the destruction of the old Monarchy of France is portrayed as a way to the new and beautiful Paris that Carton envisions during execution. Though Carton spends most…