Are any of Charles Darnay's actions portrayed as heroic?

While Sydney Carton is usually held up for his heroic sacrifice at the end of the novel, Charles Darnay also has his moments. His rejection of his wealth and estate because of the oppressive nature of the French upper class is heroic from the start. To start over in a new country with nothing but his own knowledge with which to earn a living shows great sacrifice, which he will continue in many instances. In...

While Sydney Carton is usually held up for his heroic sacrifice at the end of the novel, Charles Darnay also has his moments. His rejection of his wealth and estate because of the oppressive nature of the French upper class is heroic from the start. To start over in a new country with nothing but his own knowledge with which to earn a living shows great sacrifice, which he will continue in many instances. In his conversation with Doctor Manette about his intention of courting and marrying Lucie, he is very forthright, or at least tries to be. He has no idea of the cruelty that has been done in the name of Evremonde, but he is still willing to tell his future father-in-law the truth. His return to Paris to help his servant Gabelle in the midst of the Revolution shows great courage. He faces his death with firmness, and his only grief is for what it will mean for his wife and daughter. Dickens does not tell us what his reaction was on learning of Carton’s sacrifice, but it would be consistent with his character to pledge himself to honor Carton throughout the rest of his life.