A Tale of Two Cities

About “A Tale of Two Cities”

A Tale of Two Cities is a historical novel published in 1859 by Charles Dickens. It is set in London and Paris before and during the French Revolution. The story follows the French Doctor Manette, who was imprisoned in the Bastille for 18 years and later released to live in London with his daughter Lucie, whom he had never met. The novel is set against the background of the events leading up to the French Revolution and the Reign of Terror. According to critic Don D'Ammassa, it is considered an adventure novel because the protagonists face constant danger. As Dickens's most famous historical fiction work, it is among the best-selling novels of all time. It was ranked 63rd on the BBC's The Big Read poll in 2003 and has been adapted for film, television, radio, and the stage.