sacrifice quotes a tale of two cities

Quotes from A Tale of Two Cities

Charles Dickens ·  489 pages

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“A wonderful fact to reflect upon, that every human creature is constituted to be that profound secret and mystery to every other.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to than I have ever known.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“You have been the last dream of my soul.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“I wish you to know that you have been the last dream of my soul.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“‎And yet I have had the weakness, and have still the weakness, to wish you to know with what a sudden mastery you kindled me, heap of ashes that I am, into fire.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“I see a beautiful city and a brilliant people rising from this abyss. I see the lives for which I lay down my life, peaceful, useful, prosperous and happy. I see that I hold a sanctuary in their hearts, and in the hearts of their descendants, generations hence. It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to than I have ever known.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“A day wasted on others is not wasted on one's self.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“There is prodigious strength in sorrow and despair.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“For you, and for any dear to you, I would do anything. If my career were of that better kind that there was any opportunity or capacity of sacrifice in it, I would embrace any sacrifice for you and for those dear to you. Try to hold me in your mind, at some quiet times, as ardent and sincere in this one thing. The time will come, the time will not be long in coming, when new ties will be formed about you--ties that will bind you yet more tenderly and strongly to the home you so adorn--the dearest ties that will ever grace and gladden you. O Miss Manette, when the little picture of a happy father's face looks up in yours, 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!” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“Think now and then that there is a man who would give his life, to keep a life you love beside you.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“Sadly, sadly, the sun rose; it rose upon no sadder sight than the man of good abilities and good emotions, incapable of their directed exercise, incapable of his own help and his own happiness, sensible of the blight on him, and resigning himself to let it eat him away.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“Since I knew you, I have been troubled by a remorse that I thought would never reproach me again, and have heard whispers from old voices impelling me upward, that I thought were silent for ever. I have had unformed ideas of striving afresh, beginning anew, shaking off sloth and sensuality, and fighting out the abandoned fight. A dream, all a dream, that ends in nothing, and leaves the sleeper where he lay down, but I wish you to know that you inspired it.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“A multitude of people and yet a solitude.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“Death may beget life, but oppression can beget nothing other than itself.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“A dream, all a dream, that ends in nothing, and leaves the sleeper where he lay down, but I wish you to know that you inspired it.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“I love your daughter fondly, dearly, disninterestedly, devotedly. If ever there were love in the world, I love her.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“Then tell Wind and Fire where to stop," returned madame; "but don't tell me.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“Not knowing how he lost himself, or how he recovered himself, he may never feel certain of not losing himself again.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“Vengeance and retribution require a long time; it is the rule.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“All through it, I have known myself to be quite undeserving. And yet I have had the weakness, and have still the weakness, to wish you to know with what a sudden mastery you kindled me, heap of ashes that I am, into fire- a fire, however, inseparable in its nature from myself, quickening nothing, lighting nothing, doing no service, idly burning away.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“Liberty, equality, fraternity, or death; - the last, much the easiest to bestow, O Guillotine!” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“A wonderful fact to reflect upon, that every human creature is constituted to be that profound secret and mystery to every other. A solemn consideration, when I enter a great city by night, that every one of those darkly clustered houses encloses its own secret; that every room in every one of them encloses its own secret; that every beating heart in the hundreds of thousands of breasts there, is, in some of its imaginings, a secret to the heart nearest it! Something of the awfulness, even of Death itself, is referable to this. No more can I turn the leaves of this dear book that I loved, and vainly hope in time to read it all. No more can I look into the depths of this unfathomable water, wherein, as momentary lights glanced into it, I have had glimpses of buried treasure and other things submerged. It was appointed that the book should shut with a a spring, for ever and for ever, when I had read but a page. It was appointed that the water should be locked in an eternal frost, when the light was playing on its surface, and I stood in ignorance on the shore. My friend is dead, my neighbour is dead, my love, the darling of my soul, is dead; it is the inexorable consolidation and perpetuation of the secret that was always in that individuality, and which I shall carry in mine to my life's end. In any of the burial-places of this city through which I pass, is there a sleeper more inscrutable than its busy inhabitants are, in their innermost personality, to me, or than I am to them?” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“There is a man who would give his life to keep a life you love beside you.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“Crush humanity out of shape once more, under similar hammers, and it will twist itself into the same tortured forms. Sow the same seeds of rapacious licence and oppression over again, and it will surely yield the same fruit according to its kind.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“I see a beautiful city and a brilliant people rising from this abyss, and, in their struggles to be truly free, in their triumphs and defeats, through long years to come, I see the evil of this time and of the previous time of which this is the natural birth, gradually making expiation for itself and wearing out...” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“And a beautiful world we live in, when it is possible, and when many other such things are possible, and not only possible, but done-- done, see you!-- under that sky there, every day.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

“Mr Lorry asks the witness questions: Ever been kicked? Might have been. Frequently? No. Ever kicked down stairs? Decidedly not; once received a kick at the top of a staircase, and fell down stairs of his own accord.” ― Charles Dickens, quote from A Tale of Two Cities

About the author

Charles Dickens Born place: in Portsmouth, England Born date February 7, 1812 See more on GoodReads

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A tale of two cities quotes

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.

It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done.

I have a dream that one day all cities will be as one.

In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.

The city breathes history with every step you take.

Two cities, two cultures, one destiny.

The city is a living organism, constantly evolving and changing.

A city is not just a place, it’s a state of mind.

The streets of the city are paved with dreams.

Every city has its own unique rhythm and melody.

Cities are like books, each with its own story waiting to be discovered.

In the city, it’s not about the destination, but the journey itself.

A city is a canvas on which people paint their stories.

The city is a reflection of its people, their dreams, and aspirations.

Cities are like dreams, built with bricks of hope and imagination.

The city is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and talents.

In the city, every corner holds a secret waiting to be revealed.

Cities are the heartbeat of the world, pulsating with energy and life.

A city is a symphony of voices, blending together in harmony.

The city is a playground for creativity and innovation.

Cities are the crossroads where past meets future.

Cities are like living organisms, constantly evolving and adapting.

The city is a labyrinth, filled with surprises and hidden gems.

Cities are the stage where stories come to life.

In the city, dreams are born and destinies are shaped.

Cities are the tapestry of humanity, woven with threads of diversity.

A city is a reflection of its people’s hopes and dreams.

The city is a mosaic of cultures, traditions, and beliefs.

In the city, time stands still and races forward all at once.

Cities are the epitome of human achievement and progress.

A city is a sanctuary where dreams can take flight.

The city is a paradox, both chaotic and serene.

Cities are the engines that drive society forward.

In the city, every street is a story waiting to be told.

A city is a tapestry of memories, woven with threads of time.

Cities are like mirrors, reflecting the diversity and complexity of humanity.

The city is a laboratory where ideas are born and experimented with.

In the city, every day is an adventure waiting to unfold.

Cities are the playgrounds of the soul, where dreams come to life.

A city is a canvas for self-expression and exploration.

The city is a kaleidoscope of color, sound, and emotion.

In the city, the only limit is one’s imagination.

Cities are the crossroads of history and culture.

A city is a symphony of sights, smells, and sensations.

The city is a gallery, filled with art, architecture, and inspiration.

In the city, every step is a dance, every breath a symphony.

Cities are the playgrounds of possibility, where dreams become reality.

A city is a reflection of its people’s resilience and spirit.

The city is a mirror, reflecting back the dreams and desires of its inhabitants.

In the city, life is a constant adventure, with new stories waiting to be written.

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — A Tale of Two Cities — Justice And Sacrifice In Charles Dickens’ A Tale Of Two Cities

Justice and Sacrifice in Charles Dickens’ a Tale of Two Cities

• Categories: A Tale of Two Cities Charles Dickens

About this sample

Words: 836 |

Published: Feb 8, 2022

Words: 836 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Works Cited

• Dickens, C. (1859). A Tale of Two Cities. London, England: Chapman and Hall.
• Evans, J. R. (2008). Justice and Injustice in Dickens's "A Tale of Two Cities". Victorian Literature and Culture, 36(1), 173-188.
• Gallagher, C. (2012). The French Revolution in Dickens's A Tale of Two Cities. The English Historical Review, 127(527), 339-363.
• Graham, W. (2010). Dickens and the Limits of Justice in A Tale of Two Cities. Dickens Studies Annual, 41, 109-124.
• James, S. (2015). Charles Dickens's A Tale of Two Cities: A Casebook. Oxford University Press.
• Kaplan, F. L. (2011). Dickens and the Struggle for Justice: A Tale of Two Cities. Novel: A Forum on Fiction, 44(2), 308-327.
• Nemesvari, R. (2016). Revolution and Sacrifice in A Tale of Two Cities. Dickens Studies Annual, 47, 123-142.
• Orestano, F. (2014). Sacrifice and Salvation in Dickens's A Tale of Two Cities. The Yearbook of English Studies, 44(1), 104-118.
• Stroshane, B. (2017). A Tale of Two Cities: A Mirror of Revolution. Connotations, 27(1-3), 131-151.
• Wagenknecht, E. (1962). Dickens and the City. Routledge & Kegan Paul.

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Discuss the theme of redemption in Charles Dickens A Tale of Two Cities

Table of Contents

Charles Dickens’ masterpiece, “A Tale of Two Cities,” is a captivating novel that explores various themes, including love, sacrifice, and resurrection. However, one of the most significant and profound themes that permeate the narrative is redemption. Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, Dickens weaves a complex tale of personal and societal redemption, where characters strive to redeem themselves from past mistakes and seek redemption for the atrocities committed during the revolution.

The theme of redemption in A Tale of Two Cities:- This essay delves into the theme of redemption in “A Tale of Two Cities,” examining its manifestation through the characters’ journeys and the wider context of the novel.

Redemption Through Sacrifice: One of the primary ways in which redemption manifests itself in the novel is through sacrifice. Dickens emphasizes the transformative power of selflessness as characters willingly give up their lives to redeem others. Sydney Carton, the disillusioned and self-destructive protagonist, undergoes a profound transformation as he finds redemption through self-sacrifice. 

The theme of redemption in A Tale of Two Cities:- Initially depicted as a cynical and alcoholic lawyer, Carton evolves into a selfless hero when he resolves to take the place of Charles Darnay, a man he resembles, in the face of the guillotine. By sacrificing his life for Darnay and his family, Carton achieves redemption, leaving behind a legacy of love and selflessness.

Similarly, Lucie Manette, a symbol of compassion and purity, plays a crucial role in the redemption of her father, Dr. Manette. Imprisoned unjustly for eighteen years, Dr. Manette experiences psychological and emotional torment. However, through Lucie’s unwavering love and care, he undergoes a transformative process, eventually finding redemption from the traumatic past that haunts him. Lucie becomes the catalyst for his resurrection, and her unconditional love brings about his redemption from the darkness of his imprisonment.

Also Read:- Charles Dickens Biography and Work

Societal Redemption: In addition to individual redemption, Dickens explores the theme on a broader scale, focusing on the concept of societal redemption. The French Revolution, with its bloodshed and chaos, serves as a backdrop for the novel, and Dickens portrays a society in desperate need of redemption. Through vivid descriptions of the revolution’s horrors and its effects on the common people, Dickens criticizes the brutality and violence that accompanies the quest for freedom and justice.

The theme of redemption in A Tale of Two Cities:- Dickens introduces the character of Charles Darnay, an aristocrat who renounces his noble lineage and wealth to seek redemption from the sins of his family. By embracing a new identity and dedicating himself to fighting for the oppressed, Darnay becomes a symbol of hope and redemption. His commitment to equality and justice represents a personal redemption that mirrors the societal redemption Dickens yearns for in the novel.

The Vengeance, a minor character representing the violent spirit of the revolution, also undergoes a form of redemption. Initially depicted as a merciless and bloodthirsty woman, The Vengeance transforms towards the end of the novel, recognizing the futility and destructive nature of the revolution. Her final act of self-sacrifice, choosing to perish with her fellow revolutionaries, suggests that even the most radical elements of society can find redemption through self-awareness and self-reflection.

Redemption and Forgiveness: The theme of redemption in “A Tale of Two Cities” is closely intertwined with the concept of forgiveness. Dickens highlights the redemptive power of forgiveness through the relationship between Darnay and Dr. Manette. Despite Dr. Manette’s traumatic past at the hands of the Evrémonde family, he ultimately forgives Darnay, recognizing his genuine love for Lucie and his efforts to atone for his family’s sins. This act of forgiveness not only brings redemption to Darnay but also provides closure.

A Tale of Two Cities “Summary”

“A Tale of Two Cities” is a historical novel written by Charles Dickens and published in 1859. Set in the cities of London and Paris before and during the French Revolution, the story follows the lives of several characters as their paths intertwine amidst the political unrest and social turmoil of the time.

The theme of redemption in A Tale of Two Cities:- The novel begins with the famous opening line, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,” which sets the contrasting backdrop for the story. The narrative revolves around two main characters, Charles Darnay and Sydney Carton, who are connected by their love for the same woman, Lucie Manette.

Charles Darnay, a French nobleman living in England, renounces his aristocratic heritage and changes his name to escape the dark past of his family. He falls in love with Lucie Manette, the daughter of Dr. Manette, a former prisoner who was unjustly imprisoned for eighteen years in the Bastille. Lucie becomes a beacon of hope and love for both Darnay and Carton.

The theme of redemption in A Tale of Two Cities:- Meanwhile, in France, the oppressed masses are growing restless under the tyrannical rule of the aristocracy. The French Revolution begins to unfold, and the revolutionaries, led by the vengeful Madame Defarge, seek retribution against the nobility.

As the story progresses, Darnay is summoned back to France due to his connection to his aristocratic family. Despite his innocence, he is arrested and put on trial for treason. However, Sydney Carton, a disillusioned and alcoholic lawyer who bears a striking resemblance to Darnay, devises a plan to save him. Carton, motivated by his unrequited love for Lucie, decides to sacrifice himself for Darnay by switching places with him and facing the guillotine in his stead.

The theme of redemption in A Tale of Two Cities:- The novel reaches its climax during the chaos of the revolution, with the fate of the characters hanging in the balance. Through sacrifice, redemption, and the power of love, Dickens explores themes of duality, resurrection, and the capacity for both good and evil within individuals.

In the end, Darnay is reunited with Lucie and their family escapes to England. Carton meets his fate on the guillotine, finding redemption in his sacrifice and leaving behind a lasting legacy of love and selflessness.

“A Tale of Two Cities” is not only a tale of personal relationships and sacrifices but also serves as a commentary on the social and political unrest of the French Revolution era. Dickens paints a vivid picture of the stark contrasts between the privileged and the oppressed, highlighting the struggle for justice and the indomitable human spirit.

Q: What is the main theme of “A Tale of Two Cities”? 

A: The main theme of “A Tale of Two Cities” is the theme of redemption. The novel explores the concept of personal and societal redemption through acts of sacrifice, love, and forgiveness.

Q: How does Sydney Carton find redemption in the novel? 

A: Sydney Carton, initially portrayed as a disillusioned and self-destructive character, finds redemption through self-sacrifice. He decides to take the place of Charles Darnay on the guillotine, sacrificing his own life to save Darnay and his family. This act of ultimate selflessness brings about his redemption and leaves a lasting legacy of love and self-sacrifice.

Q: How does forgiveness contribute to the theme of redemption in the novel? 

A: Forgiveness plays a significant role in the theme of redemption in “A Tale of Two Cities.” Dr. Manette, despite his traumatic past at the hands of the Evrémonde family, forgives Charles Darnay for his family’s sins. This act of forgiveness not only brings redemption to Darnay but also contributes to the healing and closure for Dr. Manette himself.

Q: Does the novel explore societal redemption as well? 

A: Yes, “A Tale of Two Cities” explores the theme of societal redemption. The French Revolution serves as a backdrop, depicting a society in desperate need of redemption. Charles Darnay renouncing his aristocratic lineage and dedicating himself to fighting for justice represents a personal redemption that reflects the societal redemption Dickens yearns for in the novel.

Q: Are there other characters besides Sydney Carton who undergo redemption? 

A: Yes, there are other characters who experience redemption in the novel. Lucie Manette plays a significant role in the redemption of her father, Dr. Manette, through her unwavering love and care. The Vengeance, a minor character representing the violent spirit of the revolution, undergoes a form of redemption towards the end of the novel, realizing the destructive nature of the revolution and making a final act of self-sacrifice.

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‘A Tale of Two Cities’: A timeless tale of redemption, sacrifice, and resurrection

Last lines- "It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to than I have ever known."- A Tale of Two Cities

Analysis of the ending line Redemption and Sacrifice: These lines encapsulate the central themes of redemption and sacrifice that run throughout the novel. Sydney Carton, a dissolute and disillusioned lawyer, undergoes a profound transformation over the course of the story. He recognizes the opportunity for redemption and chooses to sacrifice his life for the greater good. His act of substituting himself for another man, Charles Darnay, who is condemned to die, is an ultimate act of selflessness.

Parallelism: The repetition of the phrase "it is a far, far better" underscores the magnitude of Carton's transformation and the enormity of his sacrifice. This repetition emphasizes the stark contrast between Carton's previous life of despair and emptiness and the selfless act he is about to perform.

Rest and Peace: The idea of a "far, far better rest" symbolizes the peace and contentment that Carton expects to find in death, which he has not known in his troubled life. It implies that his sacrifice will bring him a sense of fulfillment and purpose that he had long been missing.

Analysis of the theme of the book

Resurrection: This theme is perhaps the most prominent in the book. Dickens uses the idea of resurrection both literally and metaphorically. Characters are physically resurrected from death, such as Dr. Manette, who is released from his unjust imprisonment, and Sydney Carton, who redeems his life through self-sacrifice. Metaphorically, the theme of resurrection also applies to the rebirth of society and individuals, as they transform and evolve throughout the novel.

The Inevitability of Violence: The novel is set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, a period marked by extreme violence and social upheaval. Dickens portrays the brutal consequences of unchecked anger, oppression, and mob mentality. The theme of violence is pervasive, highlighting how it can be both a force for necessary change and a destructive, uncontrollable power.

Social Injustice and Oppression: Dickens was a social critic, and his novels often shed light on the injustices of his time. In "A Tale of Two Cities," he explores the stark contrast between the aristocracy and the impoverished masses, emphasizing the suffering of the latter. The novel underscores the consequences of a society built on inequality and cruelty.

What makes it a must-read

1.Historical and Social Significance: The novel provides a vivid and immersive portrayal of one of the most tumultuous periods in history—the French Revolution. It offers readers a window into the social, political, and cultural dynamics of that time, making it a valuable historical and sociopolitical commentary.

2.Timeless Themes: The themes explored in the novel, such as resurrection, sacrifice, social injustice, and the duality of human nature, remain relevant and thought-provoking in contemporary society. These universal themes allow readers to connect with the story and its characters on a personal level.

3.Complex Characters: Charles Dickens is renowned for his well-developed and memorable characters, and "A Tale of Two Cities" is no exception. Characters like Sydney Carton, Charles Darnay, and Madame Defarge are multi-dimensional and undergo significant growth and transformation throughout the narrative, adding depth and complexity to the story.

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NEW! FOR YOUR GIFT OF ANY AMOUNT

The Bible is a tale of two cities: the City of Man and the City of God. We can trace these two cities from the opening pages of Genesis to the closing paragraphs of the book of Revelation.

The City of Man is symbolized by Babylon, Rome, and even today by Western civilization. In contrast, the City of God is symbolized by the elect of God from every nation, tribe, and generation. For believers currently living their earthly lives in the City of Man, it may appear to be the worst of times. But the Gospel of Jesus Christ promises that one day all believers will experience the best of times.

The Bible is a tale of two cities: the City of Man and the City of God.

Read Genesis 4:1-16. Here we see these two opposing cities begin to take shape in the lives of the children of Adam and Eve. In Abel, we see the City of God. Abel loved God and was obedient to Him, bringing his Creator a sacrifice of blood. In his brother Cain, however, we see the City of Man with all its disobedience and an attitude that says, "I know what God said, but I want to come to God my way."

After Cain killed his brother Abel and lied about it, he fled home and eventually built the first city—a place to escape from God—filled with fear, anxiety, and restlessness. In Cain's city, it was easy to pretend that God did not exist and therefore to revolt against Him. To this day, so it remains within the City of Man.

As believers, you and I represent the City of God. Because we follow Jesus, our lives run counter to the culture that surrounds us. The Bible tells us that the godless culture of Cain runs down through generations, sinking deeper into sin, idolatry, and rebellion over time.

But there is good news: God has placed you in your neighborhood, school, campus, or workplace in order to serve Him as a light in this present darkness. God does not call us to run away from the City of Man but instead to invite others to come to the City of God before it's too late. Will you stand up and be counted for Christ today in your areas of influence?

Prayer: Father, may I be burdened for the lost in the City of Man. Use me to call people to Your Truth boldly with the love and compassion of Your Holy Spirit at work in my heart. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

"But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ's triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere" (2 Corinthians 2:14).

Learn more in Dr. Michael Youssef's sermon The Garden vs. the City, Part 2 : LISTEN NOW

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