Essay: Great Expectations

then mentions that Pip is starting to become frightened and is on the verge of tears. This further evokes sympathy for Pip as he feels overwhelmed by the situation. Additionally, Pip's behavior and language serve as another means of introducing him in the story. Even before he can take any action, Pip is confronted and intimidated by Magawitch.

Despite the fear caused by Magawitch, Pip displays remarkable politeness towards him. He consistently addresses him as "Sir," demonstrating his courteousness. Pip also maintains composure and articulate speech, despite the immense pressure from Magawitch to answer personal questions. An example of this is when Pip reveals that he lives with his sister, Mrs Joe Gargery, who is married to Joe Gargery, the blacksmith. Pip once again shows his politeness by referring to Magawitch as "Sir," which endears him to readers.

The introduction of Pip in a graveyard suggests that someone close to him has passed away, evoking sympathy for his losses. As the extract unfolds, we learn that his entire family has died, intensifying the sympathy as it extends beyond the loss of a singular family member to a state of deep depression and potential thoughts of suicide. Furthermore, the descriptions of the setting contribute to fostering empathy towards Pip.

The weather is windy and chilly, the sea is portrayed as a "Distant savage lair," the graveyard is "Overgrown with nettles," and the surrounding area is characterized as a "Dark flat wilderness. " The numerous descriptive words present a rather gloomy depiction of the location, where no child should be unaccompanied. Due to Pip's solitude in such a somber and terrifying place, the readers empathize with him even more. Magawitch

is the second character to be introduced in the book, and his initial act in the narrative involves shouting at Pip.

The description of Magawitch immediately creates a perception of him as a menacing and terrifying individual. The author proceeds to use a series of adjectives to depict Magawitch, referring to him as a "Frightening man all in rough gray clothing, with a large iron attached to his leg." The mention of the "Large iron attached to his leg" indicates that he is, or at least was, a criminal who has recently escaped from prison or has been released. This revelation instills fear in the audience regarding Pip's safety, as Magawitch could potentially be a dangerous individual. Additionally, he is depicted as having "Damaged footwear soaked in water, covered in mud, and torn by sharp stones, while also walking with a noticeable limp and shivering."

The extensive list of adjectives creates a similar impression but reinforces the notion that he is fleeing, as he is heavily damaged, bruised, and wearing worn-out shoes. Further in the passage, he is depicted as "limping towards the latter as if he were a resurrected pirate." This strengthens the notion that he is a violent criminal, as pirates are typically portrayed as such. Despite this initial impression, Dickens may have subtly conveyed a sense of sympathy towards Magawitch through some of the descriptions of him. This is evident when his numerous injuries are described as being "soaked," "cut," and "stung," which undoubtedly causes him pain.

Charles Dickens' father was also imprisoned when he was young due to unpaid debts. This personal experience might have influenced Dickens' perception of criminals, leading him to believe

that not all of them were inherently violent since his father's offense was not violent in nature. Language plays a significant role in forming a person's initial impression, particularly in the case of Magawitch. The description of Magawitch portrays him as both violent and sympathetic. However, Magawitch's language towards Pip evokes no sympathy but rather reveals his strong dislike for him.

In his first interaction with Pip, Magawitch employs intimidating and authoritative language ("Hold your noise") to instill fear and assert control over Pip. This unequal power dynamic, fueled by the significant age and height difference between them, contributes to Pip's dislike for Magawitch. Furthermore, Magawitch demands that Pip bring him food and a file to remove the chains around his leg. To ensure Pip's obedience, Magawitch manipulates him by falsely claiming that there is a hidden young man who would harm children if they disobey.

Pip is deeply terrified by this, as he cannot determine whether Magawitch is being truthful or not. The readers' dislike for Magawitch grows stronger due to his menacing behavior. The extract introduces the theme of cruelty, which is triggered by two primary factors: the treatment and atmosphere surrounding Pip in the graveyard. Pip's mistreatment is considered cruel because he is a vulnerable young boy visiting his family's tombstone in solitude. Moreover, Magawitch, a fugitive criminal, adds to his distress by violently threatening him.

The complete mismatch between Pip and the demands forced upon him can be seen as cruel, as it ultimately leads to him giving in. Additionally, the description of the setting adds to the cruelty. We learn that Pip's family has died, which is particularly harsh considering his young

age. The descriptions of the setting, such as "A long black horizontal line" and "A distant savage lair," create a dire and uncomfortable atmosphere. The choice of specific words like "Black" or "Savage" contributes to the sense of cruelty, evoking feelings of death and violence.

Due to the cruelty in this scene, Pip becomes sorrowful and fearful, evoking sympathy towards him but the opposite sentiment towards Magawitch. Extract two takes place shortly after extract one, where Pip is invited to play at Miss Havisham's residence with her daughter Estelle. Being Miss Havisham's house, which is opulent, this opportunity is novel for Pip. One approach to introducing Miss Havisham in the story is through her appearance. Initially, Pip describes her as "The Strangest woman I have ever seen or shall ever see."

He then describes her as, "waxwork and skeleton seemed to have dark eyes that moved and looked at me." This metaphor portrays Miss Havisham as lifeless and macabre, making her appear strange and intimidating. Consequently, Pip feels sympathy for being in such a fearful situation. Dickens also uses Miss Havisham's actions to form a first impression of her. Although Pip was already frightened by her appearance, he becomes even more bewildered when he realizes that "Her watch had stopped at twenty to nine and her clock had stopped at twenty to nine."

The simultaneous stoppage of Miss Havisham's clock and watch at twenty to nine presents the notion that she exists in a state of timelessness. Consequently, she appears ethereal, lacking any awareness of the current time, day, or year. As she places both hands upon her heart and utters to Pip that it had been "Broken,"

it becomes evident why she has chosen to suspend herself in time. The internal wounds she has endured are so severe that she is unable to carry on with her life, instead withering away while awaiting her inevitable demise. This circumstance may elicit sympathy towards Miss Havisham, as she has been deeply wounded and appears to have lost all purpose in life.

Miss Havisham's speech highlights her character and societal status. Her interactions with others reveal her ability to be both cruel and kind, especially in comparison to Pip. The manner in which she addresses Pip emphasizes his inferiority, as she repeatedly commands him to "Look at me" and "Come to me" without any objections from him. Additionally, when she asks Estella to play with Pip, Miss Havisham instructs her to "Break his heart." These instances illustrate the class divide between Pip and Miss Havisham, emphasizing the power dynamics at play.

Miss Havisham may dislike all men due to her broken heart, or perhaps she perceives Pip as a mere plaything due to their significant class difference. Dickens also introduces Miss Havisham through the description of her surroundings. Pip portrays it as a gloomy place, with everything lacking color and natural light. He observes, "I saw that everything that ought to be yellow had lost its lustre and was faded yellow."

Pip is in a depressing place with people who seem to hate him and are forcing him to play cards, which evokes feelings of pity towards him. The second character introduced in extract two is Estella, who is Miss Havisham's daughter. Upon meeting her, Pip immediately forms judgments about her. One way she is introduced is

through Pip's conflicting views about her. Initially, he believes she treats him poorly, speaking to him as if he is inferior to her. She consistently addresses him as "Boy," and even goes as far as calling him a "Common labouring boy," each time displaying disdain or expressing it in an uncomplimentary manner.

Despite her insulting language, Pip begins to develop affection for Estella. He views her as "Beautiful," and when asked by Miss Havisham for his opinion of her, he states, "I believe she is very pretty and I believe she is very proud." However, Pip's affection towards Estella does not change the readers' dislike for her. This is because, during their card game, Estella intensifies her insults towards him, pointing out his flaws such as his rough hands and thick boots. As they finish playing and step outside, she delivers a devastating blow.

She brings Pip some food, serving it to him in an insolent manner, almost as if he were a disgraced dog. There are a couple of reasons why she might behave this way. One possibility is that Miss Havisham, who raised her, instilled in her a hatred for men. Another possibility is that she wants Pip to view her as more important, especially since she knows he will not react. As a result, readers dislike her even more because she is bullying Pip. The theme of Social Hierarchy is introduced in this extract, which refers to one's ranking in society.

The text discusses the concept of social hierarchy and its impact on the characters in 'Great Expectations'. It highlights the contrasting social statuses of characters such as Estelle and Miss Havisham, as well

as Pip. An issue arises due to the difference in social class, as Miss Havisham and Estelle treat Pip as inferior. This is evident through their language and behavior, including giving numerous orders to Pip. Despite this treatment, Pip appears to feel a sense of jealousy towards those in higher social classes.

This is because he says "They had never troubled me before but they troubled me now." He also expresses remorse for his current state and his feelings for Estella make me believe that he desires wealth, perhaps to marry her. Pip has now recognized his ambition to climb the social ladder and his expectations have grown. He now has 'Great expectations.' Extract three takes place much later in the future compared to the previous ones. Pip is now approximately 15/16 years old and is apprenticed to his half brother, the blacksmith named Joe Gargery. Only one new character, Jaggers, is introduced in this excerpt.

Dickens introduces Jaggers in two ways – through his appearance and through his interaction with Pip and Joe. In the bar, when Jaggers starts talking to Pip and Joe, Pip immediately recognizes Jaggers and takes note of his appearance. Pip mentally goes through a checklist of Jaggers' features, including his large head, dark complexion, deep-set eyes, bushy black eyebrows, large watch chain, and even the scent of scented soap on his hands. This detailed description paints a picture of a serious and formal man who should not be trifled with. When Pip says "I checked off again," it suggests that Jaggers has not changed since their last meeting.

This passage suggests that he follows a set routine every day and

implies that he is resistant to change. Dickens uses Jaggers' actions to further establish his initial impression. After Jaggers becomes acquainted with Joe and Pip, he suggests discussing business in a different location. As they head towards Joe's house, Pip notices that Jaggers periodically glances at him and bites his finger. These actions are typically associated with nervousness, and given Jaggers' aversion to change, this may indeed be the case.

Each time Jaggers gazes at Pip, it implies that he may be regarding his shabby attire with disdain and, with each glance, he may be growing more uncertain about his forthcoming proposal to Pip. The constant gnawing of his finger may indicate deep contemplation on a matter, possibly similar to the reason he kept scrutinizing Pip. When Jaggers states, "If my advice had been sought, I would not be present. It was not sought and yet you find me here," it gives the impression that perhaps his position in the hierarchy is not as high as his outward appearance suggests since he was not even asked for an opinion on the matter at hand.

All of these indications suggest that he possesses opinions but would discard them in order to profit financially. This depiction portrays him as a greedy individual. Additionally, the language utilized by Jaggers serves as another aspect of his introduction. He consistently exercises caution when choosing his words and how he presents himself to others. For instance, the statement "I do not recommend him, observe; because I never recommend anybody" highlights his efforts to avoid displaying favoritism towards anyone, possibly in order to generate more business. This further reinforces the idea that he is

a rather greedy individual, while also demonstrating his cautious nature.

Joe Gargery, the second character introduced in extract three, allows us to form initial judgments and impressions of him. Unlike Jaggers, Joe occupies a lower position in the social hierarchy and may have received limited or no formal education. Evidence of this can be seen in his use of phrases such as "a-going" and "Meantersay." Nevertheless, Joe communicates with genuine sincerity.

He expresses that Pip is welcome to go free with his services, to honor and fortune. However, he also points out that money cannot compensate for the loss of the little child, who was his best friend and half brother. This statement reveals his sensitivity, evoking sympathy from the readers. Despite his appearance as a blacksmith, which might suggest a coarse and muscular personality, Joe defies stereotypes by possessing a different and deeper personality.

It is evident from his speech/dialogue that he possesses a caring and loving nature. His statement, "I have often thought of him since like the steam hammer that can crush a man or pat an egg shell, in a combination of strength and gentleness," portrays him as a gentle giant. Although he deeply cares for Pip, he is capable of losing his temper, as seen when he confronts Jaggers towards the end of the passage, exclaiming, "If you come into my place bull-baiting and badgering me, come out!" However, Joe usually keeps his emotions suppressed unless provoked excessively, as he was by Jaggers.

When Pip sees him wipe a tear from his eyes but stop himself from crying, it becomes evident to us that he suppresses his emotions. This indicates that he is

sentimental but feels hesitant to display his feelings, striving to maintain his tough blacksmith facade in front of unfamiliar individuals like Jaggers. If Pip were to lose him, it would amplify his efforts to repress his emotions, prompting readers to feel even more sympathy towards him. Additionally, the novel "Great Expectations" introduces the theme of ambition in its concluding section. Here, Pip comes to realize that his life's mission is to amass wealth and marry Estelle.

Until he turned 14 and started his apprenticeship with Joe, Pip had been visiting Miss Havisham every week. During this time, he patiently awaited the realization of his ambitions. It was only when Jaggers arrived that his dreams began to come true. Jaggers discloses to Pip that he can attain fortunes, as long as he preserves his given name (Pip) and refrains from revealing the identity of the benefactor. Upon hearing this, Pip is rendered speechless, his heart racing rapidly. He manages to stutter that he does not have any objections. Despite the fulfillment of his desires, there is still a downside to Pip's situation.

He is leaving his life behind, which wouldn't be so bad if he wasn't also leaving his best friend and half brother, Joe. Pip expresses his guilt and remorse for leaving Joe, saying, "Oh dear Joe, whom I am so ready to leave and so unthankful to." Pip regrets that his departure is causing a rift in both their remaining family and friends. Despite the fulfillment of his 'Great expectations', Pip's life is being shattered and there is a possibility that he may never reunite with Joe since he will soon be part of the highest

social class.

Charles Dickens introduces multiple main characters in the book 'Great Expectations', utilizing various techniques such as adjectives, metaphors, and similes. These techniques are employed to convey the appearance, actions, and setting of the characters. Through these techniques, readers are provided with an introduction to the characters and their backgrounds, allowing them to form judgments based on this information. Additionally, Dickens incorporates themes into the story that greatly impact the main protagonist, Pip. In the initial extract, the theme of cruelty showcases the harshness of Pip's life during that particular point in the narrative.

The second extract addresses the theme of social hierarchy, as it shows Pip's realization that he desires wealth and marriage to Estelle in order to escape mistreatment. The following extract highlights the theme of ambition, depicting Pip's long-awaited opportunity to fulfill his aspirations through the inheritance of a fortune. Additionally, in the third extract, Pip incorrectly assumes that Miss Havisham is his benefactor, leading readers to reconsider their opinion of her and perhaps conclude that initial impressions can be misleading, emphasizing the importance of getting to know a person better.