A Tale of Two Cities – Passage Analysis Sample Response – Level 4+ Context The passage depicts the encounter between Charles Darnay and Sydney Carton after the trial. Charles has just been acquitted of false treason charges. Carton was of great assistance in this dismissal because it was noted that he resembled Darnay so much that the witnesses’ testimonies were not reliable enough to condemn Darnay. Follownig the trial, the men ventured off to a local tavern where Carton began to drink. The passge shows a drunk Sydney Carton revealing his self-conscious, self-loathing feelings to Darnay, who Cartno envies and admires for he is a better, more successful version of himself. When Darnay leaves, Carton further exposes himself by talking to himself in the mirror and explaining that there is nothing to like about him. Analysis This passage reveals the character foil between Darnay and Carton. It shows that although they are similar in appearance, they are polar opposites in personality. Carton is seen as a self-conscious, unsuccessful and pitiful drunk. On the other hand, Darnay is seen as a proper gentleman who is successful, considerate, and acts appropriately in social situations. The plot is developed through the contrast that is established between these two characters, as the reader now predicts a conflict between them. It precedes further interaction between the two characters. The conflict may particularly pertain to to their love for Lucie Manette, which Carton reveals when he refers to “those blue eyes”. Overall, the passage is significant because the characters and plot are beginning to tie together, leading to further significant events.