A Tale of Two Cities Study Guide

#63 on the Big Read List (UK's top 200).

Through Charles Dicken's classic novel of the French Revolution, Tale of Two Cities, students will learn:

Author Biography: Learn about Charles Dickens and the fascinating history behind the author and novel.

Vocabulary words used throughout the novel, utilizing a variety of activities to stimulate retention and growth.

Literary Techniques: Synonym, mood, setting, foreshadowing, metaphor, simile, tone, in-context, verbal irony, hyperbole, allusion, irony, extended metaphors, contrast, antonym, personification, point of view, parallels, dynamic vs. static characters, protagonist, antagonist, theme, representation.

Moral Lessons and Character Values: Ecclesiastes: nothing new under the sun, helping the suffering, dealing with the bondage of sin, tradition vs. change, good reputation and trustworthiness, God loves and redeems us even when we are failures, authority, personal worth, success and fame, abusive relationships, revenge, man's heart vs. outward appearance, judgmentalism, God can give purpose to our pain and suffering, worthwhile life.

Activities and Writing Assignments: Research: Three Estates, French taxation pre-revolution, French Revolution (12 different choices), political climate, Geography and mapping of Paris, Compare and contrast American vs. French Revolution, analyze justifications for war/rebellion, research historical documents, discuss mottoes, contrast cities, doubles, heroic fates.

Suggestions for Further Reading: We include an in-depth reading list of more books by the same author(s) and other books and movies that tie in with, or are similar to, Tale of Two Cities.

All of the unit lessons are written from a Christian worldview!

• Large 8.5x11 printed workbook format is convenient to read and easy on the eyes
• Every question has plenty of whitespace for student's answers
• Encourages neat and clean handwriting practice
• Easily transports without the need for a laptop or other expensive equipment
• Provides a permanent record of the student's work
• Convenient, removable answer key included for the teacher!
• Study guides do not contain the text of the story, play, poems, or book.
• Recommended for grades 9-12.
• Setting: England, France, French Revolution, 1780's-1790's
• Genre: British literature, Historical literature