Today we looked at the courage to speak up and the courage to accept constructive criticism. The reading assignment revolved around a private conversation between Lucie and Charles Darnay discussing Carton. Lucie spoke in behalf of Carton and Darnay accepted the criticism.
Here are some final things to think about. Good intentions can accompany unfair words. We may hurt or misjudge someone without intending to. Understanding our intentions is only part of understanding what happened. Defending someone does not require defending every action. We can acknowledge a person’s faults while insisting that they deserve fair treatment.
How we offer feedback affects how it is received. A specific concern, expressed thoughtfully, gives someone a clearer opportunity to respond than a sweeping accusation. Listening does not require immediate agreement. It requires giving feedback an honest hearing before deciding what is fair. Changing our minds can demonstrate strength. An incomplete judgment becomes more troubling when we refuse to reconsider it.
Which of these ideas is easiest to accept in principle and which is hardest to practice?
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 ...
