Bell work : in your journal:

1. Bell work: in your journal: • Dickens begins his novel, Tale of Two Cities, with the famous line: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…” Could this same theme apply today? Why or why not?

2. Learning Goals: • Build upon background knowledge of author and setting of novel for better comprehension • Practice vocabulary-in-context skills to enable us to determine the meaning of unfamiliar words

3. A TALE OF TWO CITIES English II Honors Mrs. McLeod

4. Meet Charles Dickens • Born 1812 in Portsmouth, England • Lower-middle-class family that moved from house to shabby house • “crazy tumble-down house… on the river… literally overrun with rats” • Attended very little school, just a couple of secondary years • Financial troubles landed his father (and family) in debtor’s prison • Charles sent to work in a shoe factory • Stories shaped by childhood: sympathy for poor

5. Professional and personal life • Became law clerk at 15; hated it but learned much • Serial publication of Pickwick Papers 1836-37 made him an overnight success • He and wife had 10 children; separated when he fell in love with a young actress, the possible model for Lucie Manette • Theme of new beginnings, reawakenings and mistakes-turned-triumph influenced TOTC Katherine Dickens Ellen Ternan

6. DicKENS’ WORK • Dark visions of Victorian society and its social problems • Known for comic characters, gruesome villains and chatty, rambling narrators • Autobiographical novels: David Copperfield, Great Expectations • Historical novels: Barnaby Rudge, Tale of Two Cities • Died in 1869 while working on unfinished novel, The Mystery of Edwin Drood

7. A TALE OF TWO CITIES • Dickens increasingly dismayed over economic inequality of British society • “Best of times” for wealthy, uncaring ruling class • “Worst of times” for urban poor—hunger, living conditions, disease • Historical fiction based on French Revolution • Relied heavily on Thomas Carlyle’s history • Story of lives reawakened—much like Dickens’ own at the time • Published serially in his own magazine—cliffhangers helped sell thousands of copies each week

8. THE French revolution • Watershed event that changed Europe, followed footsteps of American Revolution • Battle to achieve equality and remove oppression • Began in 1789 with the attack on the notorious prison, the Bastille • Reasons: • Hunger and malnutrition—bad harvests, skyrocketing bread prices • Corruption, excess and indifference of monarchy • Fiscal mismanagement and unfair taxation • Newly wealthy, educated and vocal middle-class, bourgeoisie, was without political power • Peasants hated the ancient feudal system in which they were forced to work for local nobles • New “Enlightenment” ideas (freedom, democracy) brought social and political reforms

9. Classic love triangle

10. And so it begins… • “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, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way…”

11. Questions • Why does Dickens use the idea of “doubles” to open the novel? • What is the significance of the title of Book the First, “Recalled to Life?”

12. Bell work: In your journal • What would it be like to spend a long time away from your friends, family, and home? How would you cope with returning to your old life? Write in your journal about the most difficult challenges you’d face. Discuss how you would deal with them, as well as how other people could help you cope with your return to your old life.

13. Book I: “Recalled to life”

14. Chapter 1: “the Period” • “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness…” • Focuses on the “present period” which Dickens writes • Takes place in both England and France in 1775 • QUESTION: Explain the second paragraph. What does it say about the attitude of the ruling class?

15. Chapter 2: “The MAIL” • Dover Mail coach, passengers afraid • Jarvis Lorry introduced--WHO IS HE? • Jerry Cruncher introduced—WHO IS HE? • What is the significance of the message “Recalled to Life”?

16. Chapter 3: “The Night Shadows” • “Every human creature is constituted to be that profound secret and mystery to every other.” • Jarvis Lorry’s dream: “He was on his way to dig some one out of a grave…” • QUESTION: Who is being dug from the grave? What does this foreshadow?

17. Chapter 4: “the preparation” • Mr. Lorry meets Lucy Manette in a restaurant in Dover • Gives her the message she must go to Paris; her father is alive • Lucy faints; Miss Pross (her servant) rushes to her side • QUESTIONS: Why does Lucie faint? • Describe Lorry’s character? Is he a caring man or one of just business?

18. Chapter 5: “the wine shop” • A large cask of wine breaks on the streets outside of Paris; townspeople desperately lap it up • “BLOOD” is scrawled upon the wall by a joker, Gaspard • “The time was to come, when that wine too would be spilled on the street-stones, and when the stain of it would be red upon the many there.” –FORESHADOWING? • Monsieur and Madame DeFarge introduced—DESCRIBE. • Men refer to each other “Jacques.”—WHY? • Mr. Lorry has a conversation with Monsieur DeFarge • The three ascend the steep, dangerous staircase to find Dr. Manette making shoes • QUESTIONS: Who else is in the room? Why? In what condition do they find Dr. Manette?

19. Chapter 6: “The shoemaker” • A feeble, confused Manettesays that he is making a shoe for woman’s fashion, when he has no idea what the current fashion is. • When Dr. Manette is asked his name, he responds “105 North Tower” • Lucie is at first fearful of her father, then gives a very heartfelt speech to him; he starts to remember her voice as someone he once loved. • Lucie tells Manette that his home awaits him and the agony is over. • They leave the wine shop for England • QUESTION: What is your reaction of Lucy meeting her father? Is it convincing? Why or why not?

20. Bell work: In your Journal… • How does knowing that you’ve done less than your best affect you? Think of a time when you feel you did not do your best at school, in a sport, in a relationship, or in another situation. In your journal, describe how you responded to the situation. How did the situation affect other things you did?

21. BOOK II:“The golden Thread”

22. Chapter 1:“five years later” • Setting: London, 5 years later; 1780 • Tellson’sBank located near Temple Bar prides itself on being small dark; “If it were less objectionable, it would be less respectable…”—explain 2nd paragraph, 5th paragraph • Scene then switches to Jerry Cruncher’s apartment—describe him • Jerry Cruncher begins the day by yelling at his wife for praying and throws his “muddy” boot at her—foreshadowing? • Sits on stool outside of Tellson’s with son, waiting for porter assignment; “a honest tradesman…” “fingers always rusty…” Comment.

23. Chapter 2:“A SIGHT” • Jerry Cruncher told that Mr. Lorry wants a messenger at hand the Old Bailey courthouse—describe, explain “whatever is right” aphorism • Introduced to Charles Darnay, who is on trial for treason regarding the King of France—describe Darnay, punishment for treason? • Lucie and Manette will be witnesses against Darnay in the trial—how does Darnay react to seeing Lucy?

24. Chapter 3:“A disappointment” • John Barsad and Roger Clytestify against Darnay; their reputations proven questionable--how? • Jarvis Lorry takes the stand because he shared the packet-ship with Darnay, explains he barely spoke to him • Lucy, also on ship, testifies; she explains how he showed great compassion to her father; says Darnay told her he was travelling on business that “might get people in trouble” • Dr. Manette testifies; he has no memory of that time—why not? • Sydney Carton passes a note to his colleague, Stryver, the defense attorney. Describe Carton. • As Stryver argues, the court realizes that Carton looks just like Darnay. • Darnay is acquitted of the charges—why? Carton’s reaction? Feelings for Lucy? • “Recalled to Life” theme?

25. Chapter 4:“Congratulatory” • Darnay kisses Lucie’s hand and thanks Stryver • Dr. Manette seems “recalled to life;” Lucie’s power as the “golden thread” is what healed him and brings the past/present together • Darnay and Carton, “his counterpart” go to the tavern to talk; Carton is an alcoholic—clues? • They toast Lucie—Carton’s feelings towards her? Towards Darnay? Towards himself?

26. Chapter 5:“The Jackal” • Stryver and Carton meet up at the tavern. • Stryver is nicknamed the “lion” and Carton is the “jackal” • Carton is unmotivated, moody; goes from highs to lows quickly • Stryverchanges the conversation to Lucie, praising her beauty. • Carton dismisses her as a “golden-haired doll”—why? • Stryver questions Carton’s feelings for her. • Other insights into Carton? Why is he “the jackal?”

27. Chapter 6:“Hundreds of people” • Four months later, Jarvis Lorry has become closer to the Manette family. • Lorry and Miss Pross discuss why Dr. Manette keeps the shoe bench—why are they concerned? Predictions? • Miss Pross says Lucie has “hundreds” of suitors that want to marry her, but Lucie hasn’t been interested in any—is this true? Explain. • Darnay joins them (“One”) and recalls a story that startles Dr. Manette. • Carton “lounges in” (“Two”) and comments on the approaching storm and echo of footsteps from the street—foreshadowing? Who are the “hundreds of people?”

28. In your Journal: • Dickens placed great importance on the names he gave his characters. In A Tale of Two Cities, for example, Lucie is a name that comes from the Latin word for “light. What might other names in the book symbolize or suggest? • Examples: Jerry Cruncher? Charles Darnay’s real name, Evrémonde? Charles’ initials? Mr. Stryver? Madame DeFarge? Sydney Carton? Others?

29. In your journal… • Dickens’s novels often include one or more courtroom scenes. The courtroom scene is crucial in TOTC. It not only introduces us to Darnay and other important characters, it contains many of the issues the story explores. Why did Dickens write so much about the law? Why are legal matters often so deemed to be dramatic? Make a list of current films and television shows that use courtroom scenes for their dramatic core. What are some of the similarities and differences between Dickens’s use of this setting and more contemporary uses?

30. In your Journal… • When Darnay wants to reveal his true identity to Doctor Manette, the doctor stops him. He tells Darnay,“Tell me when I ask you, not now. If your suit should prosper, if Lucie should love you, you shall tell me on your marriage morning.” With a partner, write about three possible reasons to explain Doctor Manette’s response to Darnay. Which is most plausible?

31. Chapter 7:“Monseigneur in Town” • Back in France; Monseigneur, a great lord in the royal court, holds a reception in Paris—describe him. Symbolism? Tone? Comment on society? • Marquis Evremonde, a miffed guest, leaves, racing through the city streets • Marquis hits and kills a child; he tosses a coin to child’s father, Gaspard, and DeFarge—what do you think of Marquis’ reaction? DeFarge’s?

32. Chapter 8:“monseigneur in the country” • The Marquis arrives in the small village, where he serves as a lord—what is life like for the villagers? How do they treat the Marquis? • The road-mender tells the Marquis that someone is holding onto the bottom of his carriage—Marquis’ reaction? Predictions? • Peasant woman begs a marker for her husband’s grave, “so many heaps of poor grass…”—Meaning? Marquis’ reaction? • Drives home to his chateau; asks if Charles has arrived

33. Chapter 9:“The Gorgon’s Head” • The Marquis arrives at his chateau, awaiting the arrival of his nephew, Monsieur Charles from England, AKA Charles DarnayDescribe the chateau. Significance of “stone” and “Gorgon’s head?” in first paragraph? • Describe the relationship between Charles and his uncle. • Charles renounces his name, property and inheritance; says family acted shamefully • Marquis dismisses him; tells him to accept his “natural destiny” • Later that night, Marquis is stabbed in his bed; attached to knife is a letter. What does it say? Who signed it? • What is the significance of the chapter’s title? Tone of chapter?

34. Chapter 10:“Two promises” • A year later, Charles making a living as a French teacher. A good living? • Tells Dr. Manette of his love for Lucie; promises not to come between father and daughter. Describe Manette’s state of mind. • Darney tries to confess his name/background; Manette stops him and says he will hear the secret on their wedding day. Why? • Later, Lucie hears her father working at his shoe bench, speaking incoherently. Why is Manette making shoes again? • What is significance of chapter title?

35. CHAPTER 11:“a companion picture” • Stryver’s chambers: he and Carton are drinking • Stryver announces his plans to marry Lucie. Describe the way in which he makes this announcement. What does it reveal about him? • Carton drinks heavily, but assures his friend he is not upset • Carton tell him to find a “respectable woman with a little property.” WHY?

36. CHAPTER 12:“The fellow of Delicacy” • Stryver stops at Tellson’s on his way to propose to Lucie, informing Mr. Lorry of his plans. Describe Stryver’s disposition and character. • Almost calls Lucie a “mincing fool.” Lorry’s reaction? • Lorry tells him to hold off while he can see how the family feels. Stryver’s reaction? • Later Lorry confirms they would reject his offer • Stryverdimisses Lucie as “an empty headed girl” and tells Lorry it’s for the best, to forget the whole affair • What is the significance of the chapter title? Tone?

37. Book II Chapters 13-24Jigsaw Project • Class divided into 6 groups, each assigned 2 chapters • Each group will present 2 chapter summaries to include: • Title of chapter and significance • Setting and main characters • 5-7 bullets of key events or plot developments • 1-2 important passages explained/analyzed (you may ask audience to help you) • Any important symbolism, themes or character changes/insights • 3 thoughtful questions for the audience

38. Jigsaw project Rubric • Summary/title analysis 50 • Literary analysis (symbolism, characterization, irony, etc.) 10 • Critical passage 10 • Audience questions 10 • Presentation/collaboration 20 • TOTAL 100

39. Book III: “THE track of the storm”

40. In your journal… • The two main female characters in A Tale of Two Cities are Madame Defarge and Lucie Manette. What do each of them symbolize for Dickens? If you were to make a modern-day film adaptation of the story today, who would you cast in these roles and why?

41. In your journal… • You have probably heard the saying, “you reap what you sow.” What does this saying means to you. Have you found it to be true in your own life? How does it pertain to the characters in TOTC thus far?

42. Chapter 1:“In secret” • Darnay travelling to Paris to help Gabelle; journey is difficult—WHY? • Revolutionaries bring “Evermonde” to a prison, La Force, tell him he has no rights—WHY? • Guards hand him over to DeFarge with instructions: “In secret.” EXPLAIN MEANING. • DeFarge wonders why Darnay would travel back to France in age of “La Guillotine.” Refuses to help Darnaywhen requested. • DESCRIBE THE SCENE AT THE JAIL. DESCRIBE CHARLES’ CELL.

43. Chapter 2:“the grindstone” • Lorry at the Paris branch of Tellson’s ponders the lost and forgotten bank accounts and the fate of their owners • Lucy and Dr. Manette frantically walk in, tell him Darnay has been imprisoned in La Force • Manettebelieves he can help Darnay—WHY? • Lorry asks for a moment alone with Manette; they watch out the window as mobs sharpen their weapons on the grindstone, preparing to kill the prisoners • Manette rushes into the crowd to stop them—WHAT IS THE RESULT? • HOW HAS DR. MANETTE CHANGED?

44. Chapter 3:“The shadow” • Lorry brings Lucie, her daughter and Miss Pross to nearby lodging, with Jerry Cruncher as guard • DeFarge brings Lorry a message at Tellson’s saying it is from Dr. Manette; says Madame DeFarge must accompany Lucy & co. for protection. WHO JOINS THEM? WHAT REASON IS GIVEN? • Gives Lucie a note from Darnay asking her to take courage; Lucie begs Madame DeFarge to have mercy on husband • Madame DeFarge’s response? LUCIE’s FEELING TOWARDS MADAME DEFARGE? • Significance of title? TONE OF CHAPTER?

45. Chapter 4:“calm in storm” • Manette returns from La Force after four days; keeps it from Lucie that 1,100 prisoners have been killed by the people, carnage everywhere • Manette tells Lorry he has convinced Tribunal to spare Darnay’s life. WHAT IS THE TRIBUNAL? WHO IS IN IT? DESCRIBE SCENE. • Manette used influence to secure inspecting doctor’s position at 3 prisons, including La Force, ensuring Darnay’s safety—DESCRIBE MANETTE. • Revolutionaries behead king and queen; guillotine now a fixture; 300,000 people rising up under “Year One of Liberty”—DICKEN’S ATTITUDE TOWARDS THIS? • Darnay remains in prison for over a year • SIGNIFICANCE OF TITLE?

46. CHAPter5:“the wood-Sawyer” • Family awaiting Darnay’s trial • Dr. Manette tells Lucie of a window from which Darnay may see her in the street; she stands there faithfully each day, sometimes with her daughter • A wood-sawyer tells her his saw is a guillotine, with each piece of wood the head of a prisoner • A mob dances a ghastly, violent dance called the Carmagnole; they leave and Dr. Manette stands there to comfort Lucie—WHAT DOES THIS SCENE SYMBOLIZE? • Madame DeFarge walks by, exchanges salutes with Manette—WHAT METAPHOR IS USED TO DESCRIBE HER? WHY? • Manette tells Lucie Charles will stand trial the next day but believes he will be ok • WHO ARRIVES AT END OF CHAPTER?

47. Chapter 6:“TRIUMPH” • Trial of Charles Darnay opens; a blood-thirsty crowd watches • Most prisoners are executed without thought, provides entertainment • DESCRIBE SCENE WITHIN COURT • Crowd shouts, “Take off his head! Enemy to the Republic!”—WHAT IS THE CHARGE? • Dr. Manette is announced as father-in-law; crowd cheers • Testimony from Darnay, Manette and Gabelle helps show Charles renounced his name and family and his dislike of aristocracy’s treatment of people • Testimony and crowd’s affection for Manette get Charles acquitted • Crowd—with exception of two—carries Darnay home on shoulders; reunites with Lucie

48. In your journal… • Love and hate are sometimes described as the two most powerful forces in the world. What do you think? Which is more powerful? Freewritefor ten minutes on the topic of love versus hate. Consider who and what in the novel best embody these two concepts. Explain.

49. Chapter 7:“a knock at the door” • Darnay is back home after trial: Dr. Manette strong, satisfied and happy, but Lucie trembles with “a vague but heavy fear” • Miss Pross and Cruncher go shopping; before leaving, Pross asks if they will be going back to England now—Dr. Manette’s answer? • A jumpy Lucie thinks she hears footsteps on the stairs—SIGNIFICANCE? • 4 revolutionary soldiers barge in to re-arrest Charles. Dr. Manette’s reaction? • Manette asks for identity of “denouncer”—THEIR RESPONSE?

50. Chapter 8: “A HAND AT CARDS” • Miss Pross and Jerry Cruncher are shopping, unaware of problems • They discover her long-lost brother, Solomon Pross, in a wine shop—when has this name been mentioned earlier in story? • A suspicious Jerry Cruncher begins to ask about his name, accuses him of being a spy for the Bailey • Suddenly Carton appears, confirming Jerry’s suspicions—WHO IS SOLOMON PROSS? • Carton asks for a few minutes of his company at Tellson’s—why does he agree? Describe Carton’s demeanor