AI Rendering of Malenkov at the Waterfall

Great literature should do more than entertain us. It should provide a roadmap to improving our lives.

In A Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens introduced readers to Sydney Carton, one of literature's most compelling and deeply flawed characters. Dickens also gives him an unusual title: the Jackal.

His struggles raise questions that remain relevant today.

Are we defined by our past mistakes? Can we overcome our weaknesses? What separates the people we are from the people we could become?

Lessons From the Jackal is a 25-day character study exploring these questions through Sydney Carton’s life, decisions, relationships, and personal development.

This is not a traditional course on A Tale of Two Cities. Our reading assignments will focus specifically on Carton, with sufficient background provided to understand his story. No previous knowledge of the novel is necessary.

Each day will feature selected readings, historical comparisons, reflection questions, discussions, and practical challenges ...

Who are the characters in literature that intrigue you the most?

“Picking one of your favorite creation or character is like picking the best one of your children! I'm not sure it really works. My very favorite characters tend to be ones I can go back to and look at, and have no idea how they popped out of my head.”

Neil Gaiman