Key Symbols and Motifs in 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens’ classic novel, ‘A Tale of Two Cities’, is set against the backdrop of the French Revolution and tells the story of several characters, including the French doctor Manette, the Englishman Mr. Lorry, and the French aristocrat Charles Darnay. Throughout the novel, Dickens uses motif, symbolism, and foreshadowing to drive the plot and convey important themes. This blog post will explore some of the key symbols and motifs in the novel, offering a deeper understanding of the story.

The Broken Wine Cask

Early in the novel, a wine cask is broken in the streets of Paris. The scene that ensues is emblematic of the desperation and suffering of the French people under the oppressive rule of the aristocracy. As the people scramble to drink the spilt wine, we see the beginnings of the brewing revolution that will eventually explode into violence.

The broken wine cask is also symbolic of the spilled blood that will fill the streets of Paris during the revolution. It foreshadows the coming violence and chaos, showing the reader that the French people’s hunger for change will only be satiated by revolution.

The Knitting

One of the novel’s most memorable images is that of Madame Defarge, one of the leaders of the French revolutionaries, knitting. The simple act of knitting becomes a motif throughout the novel, representing the relentless, meticulous, and quiet planning of the revolution.

Madame Defarge’s knitting is also symbolic of the deadly, focused nature of the revolutionaries. Just as the knitting needles work tirelessly to create an intricate pattern, so too do the revolutionaries work to bring about their violent plans for revenge and justice.

The Echoing Footsteps

Another motif in ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ is the recurring image of echoing footsteps. The footsteps represent fate, inevitability, and history repeating itself. For example, in the story, we see the footfall of the approaching revolution, as the French people grow more and more dissatisfied with their oppressive rulers.

The echoing footsteps also represent the inevitability of the cycle of violence – as one generation ends, another begins, carrying on the same patterns of abuse and retribution. This motif serves as a reminder that history is always with us, informing our choices and shaping our world.

The Guillotine

The guillotine, a symbol of the French Revolution’s violence and the primary instrument of execution during that time, serves as a central image in the novel. It represents the swift, unforgiving nature of the uprising, and the thirst for blood that characterized the period.

The guillotine is also a symbol of the equality that the revolutionaries strive for, as it does not discriminate between social classes when delivering justice. While it may seem a terrifying and brutal device, the guillotine signifies the forceful change necessary in France at the time.

Resurrection

Resurrection is a recurring theme in ‘A Tale of Two Cities,’ with several characters experiencing symbolic rebirths. Dr. Manette is “recalled to life” after 18 years of imprisonment, and Charles Darnay is twice acquitted from charges that would have led to his execution.

The theme of resurrection is not limited to the characters but is also seen in the French Revolution itself, which is an effort to “resurrect” a fair and just society. Though the revolution comes at a great cost, the rebirth of France is deemed essential by the revolutionaries.

In Conclusion

In ‘A Tale of Two Cities,’ Charles Dickens weaves a complex tale of love, sacrifice, and revolution, using symbolism and motif to enhance the reader’s understanding of the story’s themes. The broken wine cask, knitting, echoing footsteps, the guillotine, and resurrection are just some of the powerful symbols and motifs that bring depth and life to Dickens’ timeless classic.

If you haven’t read or listened to ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ yet, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Dive into this gripping tale and explore the fascinating world of French Revolution-era Paris and London from the comfort of your own home.