Great Expectations

A detailed Summary of Great Expectations

In the novel "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens, guilt is a common feeling that is displayed by the characters throughout the novel. Guilt proves to have both positive and negative consequences surrounding the main characters. The constant suffering of the characters throughout the novel are in many cases inflicted by these consequences.

Pip's character illustrates feelings of guilt on numerous occasions over the course of the novel. "The guilty knowledge that I was going to rob Mrs. Joe-I never thought I was going to rob Joe, for I never thought of any of the house-keeping property as his,"(pg.11). Pip is left with no option but to steal from his guardians (Mrs. Joe and Joe), as a result of the threat he received from Magwich. This is an early display of guilt demonstrated by Pip. Another incidence of guilt that Pip shows is when he discovers that Magwich is an escaped convict. He realized this when he heard over the radio that there were two escaped convicts on the loose. After giving the requested food and file to the convict, Pip immediately had feelings of guilt and as a result was expecting for the p

Guilt is a common feeling Pip encounters throughout his journey, as he evolves from a young boy. One occurrence of guilt is brought on when Pip poorly treated Mrs. Joe, Joe and Biddy. This negative change starts when Pip sees himself above others. He becomes a person with characteristics he used to detest. As a result, this stage of self-gratification and self-interest eventually leaves Pip with no money and broken-hearted. Pip also feels guilty for not seeing Joe and Biddy enough. Even though, when Joe arrived to visit, Pip was dreading his arrival, because he embarrassed him. Pip also went as far to say, "I should have been good enough for you, shouldn't I, Biddy?" Pip's character takes on a superficial role that is evident throughout the second volume.

Pip's feelings of guilt are shown after the fight with the young pale gentlemen and the attack of Mrs. Joe. After beating up the boy at Ms. Havisham's, Pip said he "felt but gloomy satisfaction in my victory. Indeed, I go so far as to hope that I regarded myself while dressing, as a species of savage young wolf, or other wild beasts." Pip is not happy with his

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Approximate Word count = 755
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Novels

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Great Expectations

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