Due to the social and political ways of the aristocracy, tensions rose throughout France. This hostility between peasants and aristocrats started the French Revolution in 1789. Sixty years later, Charles Dickens wrote his novel, A Tale of Two Cities, in pieces. Dickens portrays this war beautifully with his impeccable imagery and recurring themes. One of his many themes throughout his novel is the theme of revenge. Dickens beautifully supports the theme of revenge through his clever symbols such as candles during the castle fire, beautiful singing birds and feathers, and knitting. Symbolizing unity and support for the revolution, the candles placed in the windows during the castle fire is one way Dickens supports the theme of revenge. The four Jacques, North, South, East and West, go to the castle and set it on fire. As the castle burns, Dickens adds: “The repairman of the roads and the two hundred and fifty particular friends, inspired by a man and a woman with the idea of ​​enlightenment, had rushed into their houses and were placing candles in every little dull pane of glass” (Dickens 178). Here readers see that the farmers put candles in the windows, which is an act of rebellion. This single act of rebellion is a way of revenge against the Marquis because he is of nobility and because he ran over a child. As the castle burns, Monsieur Gabelle is trapped inside. He asks for help, but no one helps him, while the city watches with joy as the castle burns. Dickens notes: “The officers looked towards the soldiers who were watching the fire; he gave no orders; and replied with shrugs and biting his lips: 'It must burn'” (178). From this the readers understand that the city... at the center of the newspaper... is about to shoot her with the gun that Madame Defarge has on her. Overall, Madame Defarge's revenge plan is short-lived and unsuccessful. The theme of revenge, which was probably the main reason for the revolution against the aristocracy, is supported precisely through Dickens' symbols of candles during the burning of the castle, beautiful singing bird, feathers and knitting. Dickens uses these symbols to reinforce this theme. Otherwise, these acts of revenge help spark the plot and keep the page turning of each chapter. Additionally, Dickens' cliffhangers left readers wanting to know what act of revenge would come next during this revolution. Together, these three meticulous symbols link the theme of revenge with the cause of the French Revolution. Works Cited Dickens, Charles. A tale of two cities. Ed. Giulia Nord. Mineola: Dover Thrift Editions, 1870. Print.