Analysis Of The Book Great Expectations - 1438 Words

Letter Essay, Great Expectations By Leona Markose One of the books I have recently read is Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. It introduces the reader a rather unique approach into the subject of social class. Throughout the book, Pip, the main character is faced with many challenges that shape him into who he is. We first meet Pip on Christmas eve around the 1800s. While out in the church graveyard to pray across the graves of his late family, Pip meets an escaped convict. His eyes wide in fear, he listens as the convict demands that he steal food and a file for him. Pip, extremely shaken, goes home (where he lives†¦show more content†¦He regularly visits the Satis House until Miss.Havisham informs him that he is of age to learn a trade. At the final meeting, Miss.Havisham gives the money for Pip to be bound as an apprentice blacksmith. So, Joe starts teaching Pip the ways of his trade. One fateful day while they are away at work, Mrs. Joe is brutally attacked, leaving her unable to speak and a little out of her mind. Biddy, a bright and lively girl arrives to help with her care and becomes a blessing to the household . (pg 110) During Pip s apprenticeship to Joe, Mr. Jaggers, a lawyer, approaches him in the village. He gives surprising news that Pip has expectations from a benefactor. Apparently this benefactor has arranged money to be left for Pip to learn the true ways of a gentleman. The benefactor s name is to remain anonymous until that person is ready to speak up. It has been arranged that Pip must leave for London the following week. Before leaving, Pip assumes that the only possible person who could be this benefactor is Miss Havisham.He visits her to say goodbye once and for all. Before leaving he bids Biddy a farewell. In it he says, `If I could only get myself to fall in love with you, you don t mind my speaking so openly to such an old acquaintance? `Oh dear, not at all! said Biddy. `Don t mind me. `If I could only get myself to do it, that would be