Short note on the attack on the Bastille
A Tale of Two Cities is a notable literary work by Charles Dickens. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of A Tale of Two Cities.
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Short note on the attack on the Bastille
In “A Tale of Two Cities” (1859) by Charles Dickens (1812-1870), the attack on the Bastille is a prominent circumstance. It takes place during the turbulent times of the French Revolution. The Bastille symbolizes tyranny and oppression. The attack on the Bastille represents the power of the common people rising against the ruling aristocracy.
Description of attack on Bastille
The Bastille was a prison in Paris where many political prisoners were imprisoned. The people of Paris were discontented with the monarchy’s rule. People desired to be freed from their pathetic and unbearable situation. A big and passionate procession of common people gathered outside the Bastille to attack the Bastille. They demanded to surrender the authority of the Bastille and give permission to enter it. The Governor of the Bastille, De Launay, hesitated to give in. It fuels the tension. The procession became restless and eventually forced its way to the Bastille. A fierce battle occurred on both sides.
The governor of the Bastille is unwilling to surrender and tries to hold off the mob. But the defenders failed to encounter the revolutionaries. The revolutionaries houts, “Kill him! Kill the man!” as they demand justice and freedom.
Then, the Bastille began to fall. After intense fighting and bloodshed, the agitated mob breached the Bastille’s defenses and entered the Bastille. Then, they were able to answer their long-awaited injustice. The fall of the Bastille was a triumphant moment for the revolutionaries. The attack on the Bastille symbolizes the power of the common people. The fall of the Bastille fuels the revolution all over the world.
In short, the attack on the Bastille in “A Tale of Two Cities” depicts the strength of the people united against oppression. It symbolizes hope and change during the French Revolution.