Literature
Tale of Two Cities: A Reflection of Victorian England and Revolutionary Europe
Introduction
Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens was published in 1859, ensconced in a world of political and social upheaval. This essay delves into the historical context of England during Charles Dickens' lifetime, particularly focusing on the events in Europe during 1848 and their profound influence on the author's decision to write this iconic novel. Through an analysis of the socio-political landscape of the time and its impact on Dickens' literary endeavors, this essay seeks to elucidate the layers of historical influence embedded in Tale of Two Cities.
Political and Social Context in Victorian England
The Victorian Era, particularly during Charles Dickens' lifetime, was marked by significant social and political changes. Dickens' own time was characterized by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and the profound disparities between the rich and the poor. These societal shifts provided the backdrop against which Tale of Two Cities was written, with the two cities serving as symbolic representations of revolutionary France and the British Empire.
Industrial Revolution and Class Struggle
The industrial revolution brought about sweeping changes in the socio-economic fabric of England. Factories and mills sprang up, dramatically increasing production but at the expense of labor conditions. Child labor was common, and working-class wages were often insufficient to meet basic needs. This period of industrial growth also saw the rise of labor movements and struggles for better working conditions, leading to strikes and unrest.
Reform Movements and Sassagnet
The Victorian era was also a time of social reform, with the Chartist movement calling for political reforms such as universal suffrage and the extension of voting rights. The pressure for social change was also evident in Dickens' personal life, with his wife Catherine's reaction to his travels to the poorer parts of London, including the workhouse and the docklands, further fueling his social consciousness.
The 1848 European Revolutions and Their Impact
1848 was a landmark year in European history, marked by a series of revolutions and uprisings in various countries. This period is often referred to as the Spring of Nations, during which national and liberal movements across the continent attempted to overthrow established governments and institutions. The French Revolution, in particular, was a profound influence on Dickens and his literary works.
Dickens' Experiences and Observations
Dan Wallace, in The Victorian Frame of Mind, 1830-1870, argues that Dickens' juvenile experiences of watching food being thrown to the poor and being exposed to the harsh realities of the workhouse profoundly influenced his worldview. His personal encounters with poverty and injustice can be seen in various characters and plotlines in his novels, including A Tale of Two Cities.
Social and Political Parallelisms in A Tale of Two Cities
A Tale of Two Cities can be viewed as an allegory for both the French and English societies. The character of Sydney Carton, a lawyer still burdened by a failed social status, mirrors the aspirations and struggles of the English middle class. The revolution and its effects on the lower classes in France provide a stark contrast to the socio-political situation in England, where societal reforms were gaining momentum yet were not yet fully realized.
Analysis of the Literary Impact
In A Tale of Two Cities, Dickens uses the dual narrative to explore themes of reform and revolution. The two cities of London and Paris reflect the contrasting socio-political climates of his England and Europe. The novel's plot is a testament to the interconnectedness of historical events and literary expression. By placing an English lawyer in the midst of the French revolution, Dickens provides a platform to critique both the violence and the social upheaval of the time.
Themes of Unity and Division
The novel explores the themes of restoration and the unity of humanity. Though the characters are divided by the political turmoil of their era, the narrative ultimately triumphs over division, indicating Dickens' belief in the resilience and redeemability of human spirit. The novel’s setting during the French Revolution, with its dramatic and pivotal events, serves to underscore the relevance of such upheavals to contemporary readers.
Conclusion
Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities, published in 1859, emerges as a response to the socio-political climate of his era. The turbulent Europe of 1848, with its revolutionary fervor and social upheaval, deeply influenced his literary output. By reflecting on the historical context of Dickens' life and the socio-political landscape of Victorian England, we gain a richer understanding of the complex interplay between his personal experiences and his creative expression. The novel not only serves as a historical document but also as a timeless exploration of human resilience and the enduring power of literary art.