Characters of 'A Tale of Two Cities'

Study Notes

Characters of "A Tale of Two Cities" - Book 1

Jarvis Lorry
- English businessman affiliated with Tellson's Bank.
- Represents a strong business orientation and pragmatism.
- Instrumental in bringing Lucie Manette to England.
- Holds a symbolic mission of "unburying the dead man," referring to Dr. Manette's past.
- Tasked with retrieving Dr. Manette from Paris and ensuring his return to England.
Jerry
- Works as an English messenger for Tellson's Bank.
- Notable for delivering a pivotal message, "Recalled to Life," from Mr. Lorry.
Lucie Manette
- Daughter of Dr. Manette, born in France but raised in England.
- Became an orphan at a young age, with her mother passing away when she was two.
- At 17, she embodies compassion and plays a crucial role in reviving her father's spirit after years of trauma.
Dr. Manette
- A French doctor originally from Beauvais, imprisoned for 18 years.
- Thought to be dead until he is found by Lucie and Mr. Lorry.
- Copes with his traumatic past by making shoes, a metaphor for his lost freedom.
- Held in the care of Monsieur Defarge after his release from imprisonment.
Madame Defarge
- Wife of the wine shop keeper and a shrewd revolutionary.
- Communicates secretively using signals to convey messages to her husband.
- Maintains a facade of ignorance while being acutely aware of the events surrounding her.
Monsieur Defarge
- Owner of the wine shop in Saint Antoine, Paris, and a key revolutionary figure.
- Serves and cares for Dr. Manette in his garret.
- Showcases Dr. Manette's plight to other revolutionaries known as "Jacques," highlighting the injustices of the upper class.
Jacques
- A collective nickname for select revolutionaries who witness Dr. Manette.
- Represents the committed individuals involved in the revolutionary cause and their solidarity.
Mrs. Manette
- The late wife of Dr. Manette, whose early death impacted Lucie's childhood significantly.
- Died shortly after giving birth, leaving Lucie orphaned at a tender age.