A Tale of Two Cities Family Quotes

How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Volume.Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #4

"We have so asserted our station, both in the old time and in the modern time also," said the nephew, gloomily, "that I believe our name to be more detested than any name in France."

"Let us hope so," said the uncle. "Detestation of the high is the involuntary homage of the low." (2.9.48-49)

Charles may have cast off his inheritance, but his feelings seem to have little to no influence on his uncle, a standard-bearer of the arrogant aristocracy.

Quote #5

"I know that when she is clinging to you, the hands of baby, girl, and woman, all in one, are round your neck. I know that in loving you she sees and loves her mother at her own age, sees and loves you at my age, loves her mother broken-hearted, loves you through your dreadful trial and in your blessed restoration." (2.10.39)

Asking Doctor Manette for the right to court Lucie, Charles demonstrates that he understands the almost incomprehensible role that she plays in her father’s life. Generational and familial roles have blurred between them: she now plays the role of every person he’s lost in his life.

Quote #6

"Charles Darnay, mysteries arise out of close love, as well as out of wide division; in the former case, they are subtle and delicate, and difficult to penetrate. My daughter Lucie is, in this one respect, such a mystery to me; I can make no guess at the state of her heart." (2.10.59)

Doctor Manette emphasizes the distance that can exist between even the closest of family members—a theme that the narrator himself later explores.