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 ...

• Is courage simply the willingness to act, or does it require the wisdom to recognize when our actions can make a difference?
• Does recognizing an opportunity create a responsibility to act?
• Is an action less courageous if we wait until we believe it has a reasonable chance of success?
• How can we determine if our involvement in a project will genuinely add a benefit?
• Can someone demonstrate courage by preparing to help, even when that help may never be needed?
• What distinguishes a courageous decision from a reckless one?
• Is an act more admirable when the person performing it expects no recognition?

How can we distinguish between patiently waiting for the right moment to act and using patience as an excuse to avoid responsibility?