Would C. J. Stryver have been a successful lawyer without Sydney Carton?

Mr. Stryver would not have been as successful without Sydney Carton. Primarily, Stryver does not have the eye for details that Carton does, as in his notice of his own similar appearance with that of Charles Darnay. This is crucial in successfully trying a crime. While Carlton is often lazy, Stryver seems to have trouble balancing his own work as well. He would often overwork himself if he were on his own, as shown by...

Mr. Stryver would not have been as successful without Sydney Carton. Primarily, Stryver does not have the eye for details that Carton does, as in his notice of his own similar appearance with that of Charles Darnay. This is crucial in successfully trying a crime. While Carlton is often lazy, Stryver seems to have trouble balancing his own work as well. He would often overwork himself if he were on his own, as shown by his desire to stay up all night to prepare for his court case, forcing Carton to stay up as well.

Sydney Carton is often unmotivated, but when he is, he can persevere in his sense of what is right, as in his plan to change places with Darnay in prison. His knowledge of the “underworld” makes him invaluable as a source of information in determining the details and background of crimes.

Carton’s inconsistency is a definite drag on Stryver, and the latter often needs to prod Carton to get to work. Overall, however, Carton is key in making the law firm a success.