Questions and Answers
Why is chapter 1 titled 'The Period'?
It was the period in 1775 - all the events leading up to the revolution occurred - it sets problems and social ills.
Where and when does this novel take place?
England and France in 1775.
What are the English worried about?
Superstitions - ghosts, messages to the English crown (King George III) from British congress in America.
What is going on in France?
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What is the Woodman, Fate, making?
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What is the Farmer, Death, making?
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Why do you think Dickens chose to write the first two paragraphs in such an extraordinary manner?
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Why is chapter 2 called 'The Mail'?
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What is the setting of chapter 2?
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Why are the mail coach passengers walking?
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How do the travelers react to a man appearing out of the mist?
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What message does Mr. Lorry receive from Jerry Cruncher?
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How does Mr. Lorry know Jerry Cruncher?
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What message does Mr. Lorry give Jerry Cruncher to deliver?
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Why is chapter 3 called 'The Night Shadows'?
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What does each human being pose to every other human being?
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What does Mr. Lorry dream about at first?
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What 'current of impression that never cease[d] to run' is bothering Mr. Lorry?
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Who is he having imaginary conversations with?
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How long has his imaginary friend been buried?
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What is being 'buried' a metaphor for?
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What are the letters de cachet and what do they show?
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What does Mr. Lorry ask his imaginary companion?
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What different reactions does the imaginary companion have to Mr. Lorry's questions?
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Why is chapter 4 called 'The Preparation'?
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Describe Mr. Lorry's appearance.
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After Mr. Lorry arrives in Dover, who else has arrived from London?
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Study Notes
Chapter 1: The Period
- Title reflects the tumultuous year 1775, foreshadowing the revolution's impact on society.
- Highlights social issues and tensions leading to unrest in both England and France.
Setting
- Primarily set in England and France during 1775.
- Establishes a backdrop of instability and societal troubles.
English Concerns
- Superstitions prevalent among the English, particularly fears of ghosts and ominous messages affecting King George III.
French State
- French elites engage in excessive spending, increasing national debt.
- Social injustices include severe punishments, exemplified by brutal treatment of the poor.
Symbolism of Fate and Death
- Woodman represents Fate, crafting materials for the guillotine.
- Farmer symbolizes Death, preparing carts (tumbrills) for condemned individuals; contrasts life-giving crops with death.
Themes Introduced
- Emphasis on duality (good vs. evil, belief vs. disbelief) in the writing style, suggesting significant upcoming contrasts.
Chapter 2: The Mail
- Title indicates the journey of a mail coach traveling from London to Dover.
- Setting at Shooter's Hill, known for ambush potential.
Travel Conditions
- Passengers walk due to overloading of the carriage, indicating logistical challenges.
Encounter with Mystery
- Travelers react with wariness to a figure emerging from mist, highlighting theme of mystery.
Messages Between Characters
- Mr. Lorry receives a message from Jerry Cruncher: "Wait at Dover for Mam'selle."
- Both men are associated as employees at Tellson's bank.
Revelation of Past
- Mr. Lorry conveys the message "recalled to life," hinting at significant events related to resurrection and redemption.
Chapter 3: The Night Shadows
- Title alludes to nighttime concerns, fears, and unknowns, establishing a spooky atmosphere.
- Themes of secrecy and the reality of being "buried alive" resonate throughout.
Human Relationships
- Each individual represents a mystery to others, akin to reading a single page of a book, hinting at deeper complexities.
Mr. Lorry's Dreams
- His troubling dreams center around Tellson’s bank, indicating personal and professional stress.
- He envisions a ghostly figure, reflecting his worries about someone imprisoned.
Imaginary Conversations
- Mr. Lorry imagines dialogue with Dr. Manette, who has been buried emotionally for 18 years, alluding to his incarceration.
Metaphors of Imprisonment
- Symbolic "burial" refers to Dr. Manette's wrongful imprisonment in the Bastille, emphasizing the theme of loss and suffering.
Letters de cachet
- These royal letters authorized imprisonment without trial, illustrating systemic corruption and oppression before legal reforms like the Habeas Corpus Act.
Mr. Lorry’s Confrontation with the Past
- He grapples with questions about the duration of Dr. Manette's confinement, representing the struggle to confront painful history.
Responses from the Imaginary Companion
- The phantom exhibits conflicting emotions: despair at the thought of seeing a woman (Lucie) or a yearning to reunite immediately.
Chapter 4: The Preparation
- Prepares Lucie for the forthcoming news and meeting with her father, focusing on emotional readiness.
Mr. Lorry’s Description
- Described as a 60-year-old banker, formally attired, reflecting his professional stature and responsibilities.
Lucie Manette's Arrival
- Lucie is introduced as a short, slight, and pretty figure, contrasting with the weighty themes of the story.
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Test your knowledge of Book 1 of 'A Tale of Two Cities' with these flashcards. Explore key themes, historical context, and the setting of the novel. Perfect for students familiarizing themselves with the text during their studies.