A Tale of Two Cities Book 2 Chapter 1 to 4 Quiz

A Tale of Two Cities Book 2 Chapter 1 to 4 Quiz : Five years have passed since Doctor Manette was brought back to England. At the beginning of Book II, Dickens describes Tellson’s Bank, which is old, dark, and uncomfortable, yet trusted because of its age and tradition. The bank seems lifeless and gloomy, as if it deals more with death than with money. Jerry Cruncher works there as a porter and messenger. His son often stays with him. At home, Jerry becomes angry when he sees his wife praying, as he believes her prayers work against his success. His muddy boots and rusty fingers suggest that he is involved in some secret activity. Dickens uses Jerry and the bank to show how old institutions hide decay beneath respectability.

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Jerry is then sent to the Old Bailey court to deliver a message to Mr. Lorry. In the courtroom, a treason trial is taking place. Charles Darnay is accused of spying against England, and the punishment for treason is extremely cruel. The crowd listens eagerly to the details of the punishment, showing how harsh and heartless society has become. Darnay remains calm until he sees Lucie Manette and Doctor Manette watching him. Lucie’s fear and sympathy touch the crowd, and for a moment their cruelty softens. Dickens shows that kindness can awaken human feelings even in violent surroundings.

During the trial, the Attorney-General presents a long and confusing case against Darnay. The witnesses, John Barsad and Roger Cly, appear doubtful. Darnay’s lawyer, Mr. Stryver, struggles at first, but his assistant Sydney Carton notices that he looks exactly like Darnay. This strong physical resemblance creates doubt about the witnesses’ claims. As a result, the jury believes that Darnay may not be guilty, and he is finally declared innocent. Once again, a man is symbolically brought back to life.

After the trial, Sydney Carton invites Darnay to a tavern. Carton behaves strangely and admits that he does not like Darnay, even though he saved him. He confesses that his life is wasted and lonely. Carton realises that Darnay represents what he himself could have been. Through this contrast, Dickens highlights the theme of doubles and shows Carton’s inner pain and lost potential.