Great Expectations

Guide Note:

Great Expectations is a classic novel by Charles Dickens about a young man named Pip, and his various adventures from his youth through to his manhood.

Fast Facts:

1. Writer: Charles Dickens
2. Country: England
3. Publisher: Chapman and Hall
4. Publication dates: 1860 to 1861 (in serial form) & 1861 (in 3 volumes)
5. Thematic Elements:
   1. Corruption
   2. Death
   3. Expectations
   4. Affection
   5. Loyalty and conscience over social advancement
   6. Wealth and class
   7. Flaws in Victorian society
6. Narrative: First Person

The story follows the main protagonist, Pip, through the expectations of life and adventures of growing up. Originally divided into three volumes, the reader is clearly given notice when passing from each expectation to the next.

The first expectation deals with Pip's childhood, being raised by his sister and her husband. It is during his simple childhood that he meets Estella, a snobbish but beautiful girl who attracts his attention. He abandons the simple life and begins to learn the craft of blacksmithing, Pip is surprised by legal notification that an anonymous benefactor has bequeathed to him property. He is to go to London for gentlemanly training.

It is in London that we start the second expectation. During this period, Pip rises to the status of the wealthy, as his generous benefactor has supplied for all his needs. He has no cares but to learn the ways of a gentleman. Through the circles of influence in London, he again meets with Estella. This time, however, she is pursued by many suitors.

As Pip meets his benefactor, his life is changed. He must now deal with the realities of finances and the loss of things he once held dear to his heart. Pip's life is forever changed morally and financially.