Rebirth, an idea prominent in Christianity and Western thought, is often associated with rejuvenation and second chances. The idea of a second birth is both a baptism and a change of identity, all of which figure prominently in Charles Dickens' novel, A Tale of Two Cities. Two characters, Doctor Manette and Sydney Carton, both go through a process of rebirth and a change of identity. The birth process is by nature a woman's responsibility, in both Dr. Manette's and Sydney Carton's cases they are reborn through the actions they take for Lucie, whose name is significant in itself, meaning light/daylight, all symbolic of something new/ God the light and the way. Resurrection is a recurring theme that can be seen through the actions of Doctor Manette and Sydney Carton. One character who experiences resurrection is Doctor Manette. His birth is linked to a reversal of the parent-child relationship. The doctor has been detained in the Bastille for 18 years. It can be seen that the Bastille acted as a womb for Doctor Manette and reduced him to an infantile, baby-like state. Being locked away for so long had caused Dr. Manette to start losing his sanity. To stay sane the doctor must enjoy making shoes. He experiences resurrection for the first time after being reunited with his daughter Lucie. “She held him close to her neck and cradled him on her breast like a baby” (64). Here it is evident that Lucie will take on the role of a mother figure and help bring her father back to a normal lifestyle. In this situation the role of the parent-child relationship is reversed. Instead of Doctor Manette taking care of Lucie, Lucie takes care of her father. Furthermore, Mr. Lorry tells Dr. Mannette that he is recalling...half of the paper...continuing to give it meaning. Carton's death was also the end of the revolution that put an end to the problems of the other characters in the novel. Carton experienced redemption when he died giving himself and others a second chance. Often as human beings we have to put others before ourselves. Furthermore, it is important to act for others without reciprocity. Resurrection is a major theme that can be seen through the actions of Dr. Mannette and Sydney Carton. Both characters had the opportunity to return from the dead. Dr. Mannette was trapped in a prison cell for many years when he began to lose his sanity. He experienced resurrection when he was released from prison and was able to return to a normal lifestyle. Sydney Carton also experienced resurrection when he sacrificed himself not only to give purpose to his life but also for the well-being of others.
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