This Norton Critical Edition includes:The first edition of the novel (1859) accompanied by twenty-seven illustrations, from original images by Halbot Knight Browne (“Phiz”) to cartoons from The Simpsons. An expansive introduction and detailed explanatory annotations by Robert Douglas-Fairhurst. Thematically organised contextual materials designed to promote classroom discussion. Topics include “Dickens on France and the French”, “Revolution and Aftermath”, “Living Graves”, “Learning French”, “The Composition of A Tale of Two Cities” and “Theatrical Versions”. Fourteen major critical assessments of A Tale of Two Cities: five contemporary reviews and nine modern essays. A chronology and a selected bibliography.