Here are key points that reflect the attitude of British and French nobility:
1. Confidence in Divine Right:
The nobility of both Britain and France believed in the divine right of kings, a concept that asserted that monarchs received their authority directly from God. This belief instilled in them a sense of entitlement and the conviction that their rule was just and ordained.
2. Secure Rule:
The nobles were confident in the stability and security of their rule. They saw their positions as unchallenged and viewed the lower classes as their subjects who were meant to serve them.
3. Excess and Privilege:
The chapter highlights the extravagant lifestyle and privileges enjoyed by the nobility. They lived in opulent mansions, indulged in lavish feasts, and had access to exclusive social circles. This opulence further contributed to their sense of entitlement.
4. Lack of Concern for the Lower Classes:
The nobles displayed little concern for the welfare of the common people. They were largely detached from the struggles faced by the lower classes, viewing them as mere pawns in the social hierarchy.
5. Arrogance and Disdain:
The nobility held an attitude of arrogance and disdain toward the lower classes, considering them inferior and unworthy of their attention. This attitude further widened the gap between the nobles and the common people.
Overall, the British and French nobility in "A Tale of Two Cities" are depicted as confident in their divine right to rule, secure in their positions, and indifferent to the plight of the lower classes. This portrayal sets the stage for the subsequent events in the novel, which challenge and ultimately bring down the established social order.