"A Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens is set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, exploring the themes of resurrection, sacrifice, and the struggle for justice. The story begins in England, introducing Charles Darnay, a French aristocrat who renounces his family's oppressive heritage. He marries Lucie Manette, the daughter of a former prisoner of the Bastille, Doctor Manette, who had been unjustly incarcerated for years.
The narrative shifts between London and Paris, illustrating the stark contrasts between the two cities. Darnay's past catches up with him, and he faces dangerous accusations due to his aristocratic lineage. Meanwhile, the character of Sydney Carton, a dissolute lawyer, experiences a profound transformation driven by his love for Lucie. His selfless act of sacrifice ultimately defines his legacy.