A Tale of Two Cities Book II, Ch. 3-6

Today The goals today are to clarify and analyze the chapters. Take notes on characters, ask questions, and point to specifics in the text to support your ideas.

Chapter 3 “A Disappointment” What are the three biggest reasons that the jury acquits Charles Darnay? What is the turning point in the trial? Why was Ch. 3 called “A Disappointment”?

Chapter 4 “Congratulatory” How does Dickens characterize Mr. Stryver in this chapter? Hint: Look at dialogue, actions, and descriptions. What does Dickens show us without telling us? Groups: How does he characterize Sydney Carton in this chapter? Refer to the II.4 Dialogue Analysis worksheet for a careful analysis of the conversation between Carton and Darnay. When you finish, answer this question: Why does Carton hate Darnay?

Chapter 5 “The Jackal” Find an example of Dickens using humor in his description of Carton and/or Stryver. How do Stryver and Carton rely on one another? Why is Stryver the lion and Carton the jackal? Why do you think Carton denies that Lucie Manette is pretty? Complete the annotation on the back of the worksheet. Focus on how Dickens uses figurative language and tone to reveal the complexity of Carton’s character.

Chapter 6 “Hundreds of People” Describe the interactions and personalities of Mr. Lorry and Miss Pross. What do they uncover (for the reader) about Doctor Manette and his agitations? Why does Miss Pross become so agitated in the chapter? Why is the chapter called Hundreds of People? Recap Darnay’s story about D.I.G. Where was this taking place? What is the effect of the story and why? What are your thoughts on the conversation during the storm at the end of the chapter?