While he isn't called "Dr. Relapse" in the book, the way Dickens portrays Dr. Manette does create significant suspense through his complex character:
* His Mysterious Past: The novel opens with Dr. Manette imprisoned for 18 years, his past shrouded in mystery. This initial lack of information creates suspense and intrigue about his identity and the events that led to his imprisonment.
* His Mental State: Dickens portrays Dr. Manette's descent into madness during his imprisonment and his subsequent "relapse" into the shoemaking activity that marked his confinement. This instability and the fear of his regression into madness creates suspense, especially as he becomes central to the plot.
* His Connection to the Revolution: As the story progresses, the reader learns that Dr. Manette was a witness to the brutal events that led to the French Revolution. His knowledge and potential involvement in these events add to the suspense, as his past threatens to spill into the present.
* His Role as a Father: Dr. Manette's love for his daughter, Lucie, and his desire to protect her, fuel suspense as he navigates the dangerous political landscape of the French Revolution. His involvement in revolutionary events puts Lucie and himself at risk.
Dickens generates suspense by:
* Withholding information: He reveals Dr. Manette's past gradually, creating a sense of mystery and anticipation.
* Building psychological tension: The possibility of Dr. Manette's relapse into madness adds a layer of psychological suspense, making readers wonder if he will be able to cope with the pressures of his past.
* Elevating the stakes: His knowledge of the revolution and his connection to its key figures make him a valuable asset, but also a target, increasing the stakes of the plot.
Overall, Dickens uses Dr. Manette's character to create a suspenseful atmosphere, playing on the reader's fascination with the unknown, fear of the unknown, and concern for the characters' well-being.