Carton and Darnay- a compare and contrast essay

For many years, people across the world have been in admiration, fixation, and curiosity about the inquisitive novel, “A Tale of Two Cities”, written by one of the most prestigious writers of all time, Charles Dickens. Individuals have questioned of Dr. Manette’s struggle to overcome insanity after recuperating from the troubles of prison, what the several motifs, such as “blood” written on the wall, means, and why Mr. Defarge goes to 105 North Tower. These are only a few examples of the countless subjects brought up from this novel. However, the prime unanswered question of this novel is, “Are Charles Darnay and Sydney Carton most similar or different in ‘A Tale of Two Cities’?” Numerous debates have arisen from this topic, however, the best way to find the answer is to compare and contrast Charles Darnay and Sydney Carton’s personalities, appearances, and values.

In numerous ways, Charles Darnay and Sydney Carton’s appearances are alike, and in several extents, they are different. For instance, as Carton speaks to Darnay about himself, he mutters, “Why should you particularly like a man who resembles you?” (82). This reveals that the men’s comparable mannerisms are recognized. Additionally, while in court for Darnay’s trial, the attorney points out that the prisoner and Carton are “sufficiently like each other to surprise.” (72). This is possibly the first recognition of the resemblance of the two men. After this realization in court, many other begin noticing the similarities of Darnay and Carton.

However, the two men have multitudinous differences in their appearances as well. Charles Darnay is about “five-and-twenty, well-grown and well-looking…plainly dressed in black.” (60). Darnay is altogether a young gentleman. His appearance at court is presentable, respectable, and appropriate. Likewise, Sydney Carton’s appearance is “careless and slovenly, if not debouched” (72). Carton’s overall look is terribly careless and repulsive. Many people have difficulties taking him seriously while dressed carelessly. In conclusion, Sydney Carton and Charles Darnay’s appearances, similar and different in innumerable approaches, greatly influence their lifestyles.

Similar to Darnay and Carton’s appearances, both men have resembling and contrasting personalities. For example, throughout the day in court for Darnay’s trial, he is “quiet and attentive…with great interest” (62). On the contrary, in another day at court, Carton changes “neither his place nor his attitude, even in this excitement.” Both men show timidity while with a group of people. They are reserved and modest in court. On the other hand, these two men exhibit different ways of keeping promises. To exemplify, after Darnay’s mother dies, he wishes in, “seeking to execute the last request of [his] dear mother’s lips.”(112). In contrast, as Stryver’s ally, Sydney Carton is “idlest and most unpromising of men”(83). In conclusion, Darnay and Carton are most different in their personalities.

In addition to appearance and personality, the two men have similar and different values. For example, both men have a great love for Lucie Manette. Darnay has unselfish affection for Lucie, and he “had loved Lucie from the hour of his danger.”(126). Similarly, as Carton speaks to Lucie, he tells her, “For you, and for any dear to you, I would do anything”(147). However, the two men show different ways of handling their problems. While Darnay is in London, he “expected labor, and he found it, and made the best of it” Charles Darnay makes the best of every situation. He knows what to expect and tries his best. However, Sydney Carton “resorted to his pint of wine for consolation”(82) after Darnay’s court trial. He tries to cope with his pain by drinking. The two men show very similar and different values.

As long as many can remember, several readers around the world remain in wonder, enthrallment, and interest about the fascinating novel, A Tale of Two Cities, written by Charles Dickens. Individuals have questioned of Dr. Manette’s effort to conquer madness after recovering from the problems of prison, what the numerous motifs, such as “blood” written on the wall, means, and why Mr. Defarge visits 105 North Tower. These are only a couple examples of the countless subjects brought up from this novel. However, the prime unanswered question of this novel is, “Are Charles Darnay and Sydney Carton most similar or different in A Tale of Two Cities?” Several discussions have occurred from this subject, though, the preeminent method to discover the answer is to compare and contrast Charles Darnay and Sydney Carton’s personalities, appearances, and values.