Mr Stryver A Tale Of Two Cities

Mr. Stryver: A Tale of Two Cities – Ambition, Hypocrisy, and the Illusion of Success

Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities is a sprawling epic encompassing revolution, redemption, and the complexities of human nature. While the novel focuses on the intertwined fates of several key characters, the ambitious and ultimately flawed Sydney Carton stands in stark contrast to another prominent figure: Mr. Stryver. This article delves deep into the character of Mr. Stryver, exploring his ambition, hypocrisy, and the ultimately hollow nature of his perceived success. We will analyze his relationship with Carton, his professional life, and the societal context that shapes his choices.

The Flamboyant Barrister: A Master of Self-Promotion

Mr. Stryver is presented as a successful and outwardly confident barrister. He is a master of self-promotion, loud, boisterous, and supremely self-assured. His booming laugh and theatrical pronouncements fill the courtroom and social gatherings. He is a man who thrives on attention and the validation of his perceived success. Dickens portrays him with vivid imagery: we see his "powerful hands," his "large, loud voice," and his general air of self-importance. This immediately sets him apart from the more quiet and introspective Sydney Carton.

The Illusion of Effortless Success: A Carefully Constructed Persona

Stryver’s success, however, is not based on exceptional intellect or tireless work ethic. He is clever, but his success stems more from his aggressive self-promotion and his ability to leverage the talents of others. Dickens subtly reveals that much of Stryver's work is done by Carton, who provides the intellectual groundwork for Stryver’s courtroom victories. Stryver takes the credit, basking in the glory while Carton remains in the shadows. This dynamic underscores the inherent hypocrisy at the heart of Stryver's character.

The Unequal Partnership: Stryver and Carton's Complex Relationship

The relationship between Stryver and Carton is crucial to understanding Stryver’s character. It is not a simple friendship; it is a complex and imbalanced power dynamic where Stryver unknowingly benefits from Carton's superior intellect and diligence. Stryver sees Carton as a tool, a subordinate who can be used to further his ambitions. He never truly appreciates Carton’s capabilities or the depth of his sacrifice.

The Exploited Genius: Carton's Unacknowledged Contributions

Carton's contribution to Stryver's success is significant. He performs the grueling research, crafts the brilliant legal arguments, and essentially lays the groundwork for every one of Stryver's triumphs. Yet, Stryver readily accepts this assistance without a hint of genuine gratitude. He takes the glory, leaving Carton to remain unrecognized and unappreciated. This underscores the moral bankruptcy inherent in Stryver’s character and highlights the societal structures that allow such exploitation to occur.

Ambition and the Pursuit of Material Success: A Faustian Bargain?

Stryver’s ambition is relentless. He desires wealth, status, and recognition. He is driven by a desire for material success, which he equates with happiness. His pursuit of this goal is relentless, and he is willing to exploit others to achieve it.

The Hollow Victory: The Cost of Unchecked Ambition

Stryver’s pursuit of success, however, ultimately proves to be hollow. Despite achieving a prominent position in society, he remains deeply unhappy. He marries Lucy Manette's sister, but the marriage is portrayed as lacking genuine affection. His focus on material achievements leaves him emotionally and spiritually bankrupt. This emptiness serves as a powerful critique of society's obsession with wealth and status, demonstrating the hollowness at the core of unchecked ambition.

The Societal Context: Class and Inequality in Victorian England

Stryver's character is inextricably linked to the social context of Victorian England. He embodies the ruthless ambition of the rising middle class, constantly striving for upward mobility, regardless of the cost. His success is built on the exploitation of those less privileged, highlighting the vast inequalities present in Victorian society.

The System's Enabler: Stryver as a Product of His Time

Stryver is not merely a flawed individual; he is a product of a deeply flawed system. The legal system, characterized by inequality and corruption, allows him to thrive, while those less privileged are left to struggle. He is able to manipulate the system to his advantage, showcasing the ease with which the powerful can exploit the less fortunate. His behavior reflects the broader societal structures that perpetuate injustice.

The Contrast with Carton: A Study in Contrasting Personalities

The contrast between Stryver and Carton is a key element of Dickens' narrative. While Stryver is outwardly successful but inwardly empty, Carton is outwardly unassuming but possesses a hidden depth of character and moral strength.

Hidden Depths: Carton's True Nobility

Carton, despite his apparent cynicism and self-deprecation, possesses a profound sense of morality and self-sacrifice. He silently bears the burden of his unrequited love for Lucie and ultimately makes the ultimate sacrifice for her and her family. This sacrifice stands in stark contrast to Stryver's self-serving ambition, highlighting the true meaning of nobility and selflessness.

The Legacy of Mr. Stryver: A Cautionary Tale

Mr. Stryver's character serves as a cautionary tale. He represents the dangers of unchecked ambition, the hollowness of material success, and the moral bankruptcy of exploiting others to achieve one's goals. Dickens uses Stryver's character to critique the societal structures that allow such exploitation to occur and to emphasize the importance of genuine morality and selflessness over empty ambition.

A Reflection of Societal Flaws: More Than Just a Character

Stryver's story is not merely about one man's failures; it's a reflection of the broader societal problems of Dickens' time. It is a critique of class inequality, unchecked ambition, and the corrupting influence of power. His story is a reminder that true success lies not in material wealth or social status, but in moral integrity and compassion.

Conclusion: The Enduring Relevance of Mr. Stryver

Mr. Stryver's character in A Tale of Two Cities remains relevant today. His story serves as a timeless warning against the pitfalls of unchecked ambition and the importance of recognizing the value of genuine relationships and moral integrity. His character, although seemingly minor compared to the other major players in the novel, provides a crucial commentary on the human condition and the complexities of ambition, hypocrisy, and the illusion of success in a world rife with inequality and social injustice. He reminds us that true fulfillment comes not from outward appearances or material possessions, but from inner peace and the positive impact we have on the lives of others. The enduring power of Dickens' masterpiece lies in its ability to expose such timeless truths through compelling and multifaceted characters like Mr. Stryver.