Poverty and Shame in "Great Expectations"

Paper Summary:

This paper examines Charles Dickens' semi-biographical novel "Great Expectations" with particular focus on the themes of poverty and shame. It also takes a look at the themes of greed, selfishness, and human behaviour, with regards to the "wants" and "needs" of the main characters. The paper argues that the poverty of the central character, Pip, is the motivation behind the greed which develops in Pip's character. The structured class system and rules of society, along with the many people he comes into contact with throughout the novel, influence him as well. The paper concludes that, although Pip develops into a greedy and selfish young adult, his misfortunes are not only his fault, but have been inflicted on him by others.

From the Paper:

"Therefore, when the opportunity arises for Pip to educate himself as a gentleman, he does not hesitate for a moment. Pip says, "It is a most miserable thing to feel ashamed of home. There may be black ingratitude in the thing, and the punishment may be retributive and well deserved; but that it is a miserable thing, I can testify" (106). Even though his house has never been an enjoyable one "because of [Pip's] sister's temper...Joe had sanctified it, and [Pip] had believed in it" (106). Pip's goal is to make something of himself and his future. He can't wait to rid himself of shame and poverty when he says to himself, "No more low wet grounds, no more dykes and sluices, no more of these grazing cattle...faced round, in order that they might stare as long as possible at the possessor of such great expectations - farewell, monotonous acquaintances of my childhood...I was for London and greatness" (147). Pip is willing to give up the only love and family he knows to impress Estella and prove that he is of value, not only to her, but to society as well."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Dickens, Charles. Great Expectations. London: Penguin Books, 1996.

More papers on Poverty and Shame in "Great Expectations":

• Analytical Essay # 32773 : "Anticipation and Realization in "Great Expectations"
• Analytical Essay # 136922 : "Suffering in "Great Expectations"
• Analytical Essay # 87427 : "Honesty in "Great Expectations"

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