Stryver

Stryver, in Charles Dickens' novel A Tale of Two Cities, is a prominent barrister and colleague of Sydney Carton. He is portrayed as ambitious, arrogant, and self-important. Stryver possesses considerable legal talent but lacks the genuine empathy and intellectual depth that characterize Carton. He relies heavily on Carton's sharp mind and legal expertise to prepare his cases, often taking credit for Carton's insights.

Stryver is driven by a desire for social advancement and professional success. He seeks to marry Lucie Manette to improve his standing, viewing her as a desirable social asset rather than a person he genuinely loves. His pursuit of Lucie is ultimately unsuccessful.

His character serves as a contrast to Sydney Carton, highlighting the difference between outward success and inner virtue. Stryver represents the superficiality and self-serving nature of some members of the legal profession and upper class in 18th-century England and France. He is often referred to as the "shoulder" because he uses others to climb to the top.