A Tale of Two Cities · Chapter
The Knitting Done explained
Madame Defarge conspires with The Vengeance and Jacques Three to ensure the destruction of the Evrémonde family, including Lucie and her child, despite her husband's reluctance.
What happens
Madame Defarge conspires with The Vengeance and Jacques Three to ensure the destruction of the Evrémonde family, including Lucie and her child, despite her husband's reluctance. She then goes to the Manette lodging to confront them, but Miss Pross bravely blocks her, allowing Lucie and the others to escape. In the struggle, Madame Defarge is killed by her own pistol. Meanwhile, Miss Pross and Jerry Cruncher prepare to follow the coach carrying the escaping family.
Themes in this chapter
Vengeance vs. Justice
Madame Defarge's relentless pursuit of vengeance against the Evrémonde family, even against her husband's wishes, contrasts with the idea of justice.
Sacrifice and Redemption
Miss Pross's selfless bravery to protect Lucie and her child, and Mr. Cruncher's vows to reform, highlight themes of sacrifice and personal redemption.
Characters to notice
- Madame Defarge
Conspires with The Vengeance and Jacques Three to exterminate the Evrémonde family; goes to the Manette lodging to confront Lucie but is killed in a struggle with Miss Pross.
- The Vengeance
Participates in Madame Defarge's council, supporting her plans.
- Jacques Three
A member of the Revolutionary Jury who conspires with Madame Defarge and expresses a desire for more executions.
- Miss Pross
Bravely confronts Madame Defarge to protect Lucie and her child; accidentally kills Madame Defarge in the struggle.
- Mr. Cruncher
Assists Miss Pross in the escape plan; vows to give up his grave-robbing and stop interfering with his wife's 'flopping.'
- Doctor Manette
Mentioned as the object of Monsieur Defarge's weakness; not directly present in the chapter.
Key passages
“But my husband has his weaknesses, and he is so weak as to relent towards this Doctor.”
Madame Defarge criticizes her husband for showing mercy to Doctor Manette.
Reveals the conflict between Madame Defarge and her husband over the fate of the Evrémonde family.
“I am a Briton, said Miss Pross, I am desperate. I don't care an English Twopence for myself.”
Miss Pross declares her willingness to risk her life for Lucie's safety.
Demonstrates Miss Pross's fierce loyalty and courage.