A Tale of Two Cities

As with Shakespeare, I think a lot of people are reluctant to try reading Dickens. Both authors are from a different time and wrote their works in a language that is dying out. No one speaks like Dickens wrote; therefore, we find it hard to comprehend and read. But Dickens demands to be read. In the pages of his novels he has created stories that are important, gorgeous, and worth the effort. Dickens is the creator of many stunning and intriguing characters set against the backdrop of familiar places in a different time. His stories pull you in, his settings dazzle you, and his characters find a special place in your heart. One of his best known works, A Tale of Two Cities, by Charles Dickens, is a masterpiece that should be read by everyone.

"Rebellion!" everyone cried. The poor fought back against their oppressors and sought to create a France where poverty was destroyed and every man, woman, and child had an equal share. But with the overthrowing of the monarchy there arose a new oppressor. France itself became the dictator of its people and buried them in the blood of those who dared to fight back. There was nothing except death, mire, and poverty, and over it all hung the shadow of the guillotine. France's cruel mistress who daily called thousands to her to die. As the book says, It was the best of times, in was the worst of times.

Caught in the middle of the bloodbath were fair Lucy, Charles, and their only child. Victims of a world that was burning around them, they desperately sought a way to return to the safety of England. They wanted to survive; Lucy knew she must survive for her child. Accompanying them were four companions, Dr. Manette; Lucy's father and a former prisoner of the Bastille; Mr. Lorry and Sydney Carton, family friends who would do anything for their dear friends; and Miss Pross, a dear companion to Lucy who loved her like a daughter. Everyone was in danger and no one dared to hope. England seemed so far way and to return to it sacrifices must be made. Someone might have to die to save the others.

It is a far far better thing I do, than I have ever done. I'm sure these words will stay with me for a while. I put off reading A Tale of Two Cities and now I regret waiting so long. While horribly sad and gruesome, this Dickens novel is a gem. Written in gorgeous language, this story of hope in bleak times and sacrificing for the ones you love fills your heart and then crushes it with tragedy. Yet it ends with hope for the characters and is one of the better books I've read in a while. While the language is old - fashioned and the writing flowery, all that is superseded by the beautiful story and wonderfully crafted characters. Be prepared to cry at the end of this book. Though sad, A Tale of Two Cities should be read and appreciated.

Photo Credit: Classical Conversations Books

*****
RJ