Student Question
In A Tale of Two Cities, how does Barsad try to trick the Defarges?
Quick answer:
Barsad tries to trick the Defarges by pretending to be part of the revolutionary movement, calling Defarge "Jacques" to suggest insider status, which Defarge knows is false. Barsad also references their deceased friend Gaspard to imply knowledge of revolutionary matters, but receives no response. His attempt to gain favor by mentioning Charles Darnay's marriage to Lucie Manette only elicits a slight reaction. Ultimately, his name is knitted into Madame Defarge's scarf, marking him as an enemy.
In A Tale of Two Cities, the Defarges' wine shop is the underground hub of the French Revolution. Here members of the brotherhood call one another "Jacques" to ensure they are, indeed, part of the revolutionary movement. Barsad is a terrible spy, for when he comes to the wine shop he boldly calls Defarge "Jacques"--more than once, even after he's been told he must be mistaken. It's a clumsy attempt to claim some kind of insider status which Defarge, as de facto leader of the movement, certainly knows is not true.
Another attempt Barsad makes is making a reference to the Defarges' dead friend Gaspard, implying that he's somehow "in the know" on revolution details. This one gets no response, either.
He goes on to try to get a reaction of some kind from these stoic shopkeepers, and he tells them of the upcoming marriage between Charles Darnay and Lucie Manette. This doesn't help him get into their good graces, but it does get him a bit of a reaction from the Defarges before he leaves. What does he get for his pains? His name, beautifully knitted into Madame Defarge's scarf.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.