Here's why:
* The Pathetic: The book ends with the execution of the innocent Dr. Manette. His death is a devastating blow, highlighting the brutal and unjust nature of the French Revolution. It's a scene filled with sorrow and despair.
* The Comic: However, the execution is also described in a way that borders on the absurd. The executioner, who is described as "a picturesque, but repulsive, figure," bungles the execution, and the crowd responds with a mixture of amusement and horror.
Dickens uses this contrast to highlight the absurdity of the situation and the cruelty of the revolution. It's a darkly ironic scene that leaves the reader with a sense of both sadness and confusion.
In summary: The ending of the first book of *A Tale of Two Cities* is a powerful combination of pathos and humor, creating a unique and unforgettable scene.