Nine Days explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Resurrection and Renewal

  Doctor Manette's relapse into shoemaking represents a regression from his renewed life, contrasting with the hopeful marriage of Charles and Lucie.

• Love and Family

  The marriage of Charles and Lucie, along with Mr. Lorry's and Miss Pross's devotion to Doctor Manette, highlights the bonds of love and familial duty.

• Sacrifice and Redemption

  Doctor Manette's silent suffering and Mr. Lorry's patient care suggest themes of sacrifice for the sake of loved ones, with hope for redemption through recovery.

Characters to notice

• Mr. Jarvis Lorry

  Arranges the wedding, gives Lucie a set of diamonds, and becomes the primary caretaker of Doctor Manette after his relapse.

• Charles Darnay

  Marries Lucie Manette and departs with her for their honeymoon, leaving Doctor Manette behind.

• Lucie Manette

  Marries Charles Darnay, receives diamonds from Mr. Lorry, and leaves for her honeymoon unaware of her father's relapse.

• Doctor Manette

  After the wedding, relapses into his shoemaking obsession, becoming unresponsive and working tirelessly for nine days.

• Miss Pross

  Attends the wedding and helps Mr. Lorry care for Doctor Manette during his relapse.

Key passages

• “Charles Darnay and Lucie Manette were happily married.”

  Charles Darnay and Lucie Manette were joyfully wed.

  Describes the successful marriage ceremony.

• “He doesn't know me, and is making shoes!”

  He does not recognize me and is making shoes!

  Miss Pross's horrified realization of Doctor Manette's relapse.

• “The secret was well kept, and Lucie was unconscious and happy”

  The secret was carefully guarded, and Lucie remained unaware and content.

  Highlights the concealment of Doctor Manette's condition from Lucie.