A Tale Of Two Cities

Worksheet Description

This worksheet introduces students to the concept of juxtaposition, a literary device for placing two elements side by side to highlight their contrasts or similarities. At the worksheet’s top, the title “Juxtaposition” immediately draws attention, followed by an explanation that describes how writers use this technique to emphasize the differences or similarities of characters, ideas, or objects. The aim is to enhance the reader’s understanding by spotlighting contrasts within the text.

Below the definition, an excerpt from Charles Dickens’s “A Tale of Two Cities” demonstrates juxtaposition through its iconic opening lines. The text invites students to underline each juxtaposition instance, offering a practical exercise in identifying the device in literary context. The worksheet prompts students to consider the effect of juxtaposition and to explore Dickens’s reasoning for beginning his novel with such contrasting statements. This section encourages students to engage with the text critically, providing an opportunity for them to articulate their interpretations of Dickens’s use of contrast to bring out the complexities of his historical setting.