An important related theme is honor versus dishonor. The novel’s descriptions of characters who put duty before desire in crisis situations also provides students with the basis for thought-provoking discussion as well as worthy role models. With the popularity of movies and television shows that glorify the actions of characters who step outside of the law to achieve revenge, classroom discussion on this topic should be lively. For example, the results of what happens when revenge is allowed to dictate behavior provides an important topic for students to explore. The themes that are explored in the novel still have relevance today. The fact that Dickens is able to weave the simple lives of ordinary people into the mosaic of a cataclysmic historical event is an indication of his genius, and another reason to read the book. As a historical novel, it serves as an excellent example of this genre. Much of the novel’s value lies in its structure, creativity, and explorations of timeless themes. These differences make it especially accessible to high school students. It is probably the least “Dickensian” of his fourteen novels in that it has less of the grotesque, fewer characters, more big scenes, and a less complicated plot. A Tale of Two Cities is an excellent choice of reading material for senior high school students.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |