1. The French Revolution & Charles Dickens
A Tale of two cities
The French Revolution & Charles Dickens

2. French revolution Students will…
Explore the themes and historical events that inspired Dickens to write A Tale of Two Cities
Setting of novel—French Revolution
Study the French Revolution to gain a proficient understanding of the time period
Videos, reading, group work
Complete Tasks individually
Learn about the life of Charles Dickens and what influenced his writing
Poverty – compare/contrast with poverty today

3. Revolution What is a revolution?
What are the causes and effects of a revolution?
Give an example of an actual revolution.
Who were the people involved? Leaders?
Social, political, economical climate?
Concerns from both/multiple sides?
Resolution?
Write, share with group
Class discussion
Could a revolution happen in our country today? In the future?

4. homework Review powerpoint on coffee shops—take notes
Research more about the Revolution or watch videos
Write a one page reflection on what you learned
Causes, effects, people involved/classes, leaders, concerns, etc.

5. In class
Now that you have a better understanding of the French Revolution and the significance of coffee shops, you will participate in a “Debating Society” in which you are from the middle or lower class.
Create your identity as a French person
Name
Title/job
How does the Revolution affect you?

6. Charles dickens Best-known novelist of his time
His works are still relevant today
Read the two essays “Who Was Charles Dickens?” and “Down and Out in Victorian England” and answer the following questions (on next slide)…

7. Group discussion
What was the philosophy behind workhouse relief for the poor?
Why were families separated within the workhouse?
Why were they fed meager rations?
What was the attitude of most middle-class Victorians toward people in their society who lived in poverty?
Consider current attitudes about poverty. Read article on poverty.
How are the poor viewed in our country and in less developed countries?
Using the statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau, which statistics do you find most surprising and why?
How would Dickens compare and contrast poverty in Victorian England to the current state of poverty?

8. Debating society café liberté, 1793
Read at least one of the news pieces
Ponder what it would mean to you as a French person during the Revolution
Share the news with the other people in your “Debating Society”
Discuss what these news events mean for you and the Revolution
Patrons have 25 minutes to discuss with their Debating Societies
Record your thoughts on a separate sheet of paper

9. Discussion questions Break the historical moment!
How would the Revolution’s course be affected by these events and sentiments?
Create a web of pressure
How does looking at this moment as members of the French population affect your understanding of the French Revolution?
As a class:
As French people, what do you think is next for our revolution? Why?