At first glance, Dickens’ novel, A Tale of Two Cities, is quite a chore to read. It was the style of writers in his time to write wordy novels, for their wage was based on it. After finishing the story to the end, though, I appreciate having read it.
It was the story of Sydney Carton which had affected me the most. He is not the major protagonist of the story; rather, the dual nature present between him and his complement, Charles Darnay, is one of the main themes of the story. He does not seem to be as decent or respectable like Darnay is, and he even says so himself. He deems himself unworthy of Lucie’s love, and chooses to hide in obscurity, willing to do anything for her. In the end, he is able to do so, and he takes the place of Darnay when he is to be executed on the guillotine. He was able to make the ultimate sacrifice for the person he loves, only for her to be happy in the arms of another man, and his complement, of all the men in the world. That is indeed a most profound expression of love, and I admire Carton for being able to perform such a selfless act.
I honestly wish that I would be able to give my life for the persons I treasure most. Even if I would lose my life, I would rest in peace knowing that my sacrifice was worth it. I know that my sacrifice – and I, myself – would never be forgotten. I only hope that my sacrifice would not make them sad for me.