Characters: Pip

Philip Pirrip (who shortens his own name to “Pip” as a child) is the narrator and protagonist of the story, an orphan who grows up in humble circumstances with his sister and brother-in-law, only to find himself suddenly endowed with a large sum of money, the “great expectations” of the title. Great Expectations is a bildungsroman—the story of an individual's growth and development within a strict social order, and Pip is the focus of this...

Characters: Estella

Estella is cold, cruel, beautiful, and deeply untrustworthy. The daughter of Magwitch the convict, she is taken in by Miss Havisham from the age of three and taught to hate and mistreat men of all kinds, Pip among them. The reader sees her through the eyes of Pip, who falls in love with her and never quite separates her attractiveness from her social superiority and poise. Estella varies in her attitude to Pip, sometimes seeming friendly in a...

Characters: Miss Havisham

Miss Havisham initially appears as an eccentric, imperious old woman. At first, it is unclear whether there is a kind heart behind this forbidding exterior, but, as the novel progresses, it is evident that Miss Havisham is actually much worse than she seems, a thoroughly embittered, cynical character motivated entirely by hatred and vanity. As a young woman she was spoiled and selfish, and the shock of being jilted at the altar unhinged her mind...

Characters: Abel Magwitch

Abel Magwitch, also known simply as "The Convict," is a career criminal at the beginning of the novel, with what seem like no redeeming qualities. He stalks Pip in the cemetery after escaping from prison as the novel opens; Pip’s resulting kindness melts his icy heart, and he becomes determined to emulate the self-improvement that tiny boy has devoted his own life to.

Magwitch endures years of hard, backbreaking work to repay his fairly minor...

Characters: Joe Gargery

Joe Gargery, Pip's brother-in-law and father figure, is the epitome of kindness and integrity in Great Expectations. A humble blacksmith, Joe remains steadfastly loyal and loving towards Pip, even when Pip's aspirations lead him to treat Joe with disdain. Despite the harshness of his marriage to Mrs. Joe, Joe's gentle nature never wavers, and he endures her abuse with quiet dignity.

Joe's unwavering support and forgiveness become crucial to Pip's...

Characters: Mrs. Joe Gargery

Mrs. Joe Gargery, Pip’s older sister, is a domineering and harsh woman who takes pride in raising Pip "by hand," which often involves physical punishment. Her volatile temper and domineering attitude create a harsh home environment for both Pip and Joe. Her marriage to Joe is marked by her controlling nature, although Joe’s tolerance emphasizes his gentle spirit.

Mrs. Joe’s character is further complicated by her eventual incapacitation...

Characters: Herbert Pocket

Herbert Pocket, introduced as "the pale young gentleman," becomes Pip's closest friend and confidant in London. He is cheerful, loyal, and supportive, embodying the qualities of a true friend. Despite his own modest means, Herbert dreams of improving his circumstances and is characterized by his perseverance and optimism.

The friendship between Pip and Herbert is central to Pip’s growth, as Herbert’s unwavering kindness and ambition provide a...

Characters: John Wemmick

John Wemmick, Mr. Jaggers’ clerk, is a dual-character who maintains a strict separation between his work life and his personal life. At the law office, Wemmick is efficient and businesslike, embodying the professional detachment valued by Jaggers. However, in his private life, he is warm, caring, and devoted to his "Aged Parent."

Wemmick’s unique ability to compartmentalize his life provides relief and comic relief within the novel. His...

Characters: Biddy

Biddy is Pip's childhood friend and later Joe's wife. She is a kind-hearted, wise, and practical young woman who serves as a foil to Estella. Her genuine care for Pip's wellbeing and her ability to see his true worth contribute significantly to his moral development.

Biddy's influence on Pip is subtle but profound, as she encourages him to see beyond superficial aspirations and appreciate the simple, sincere virtues in life. Her marriage to Joe...

Characters: Dolge Orlick

Dolge Orlick, Joe Gargery's surly and malevolent apprentice, embodies raw malice and resentment. His animosity towards Pip and the Gargery household stems from envy and bitterness. Orlick's attack on Mrs. Joe and his later attempt to kill Pip reveal his unchecked violence and vindictiveness.

His character serves as a stark representation of evil contrasted against the novel's more morally upright characters, illustrating the potential for darkness...

Mr. Jaggers, a formidable lawyer, plays a pivotal role in Pip's transition to becoming a gentleman. Known for his impeccable reputation and ruthless efficiency, Jaggers is both feared and respected. His professional demeanor is marked by a detachment from personal feelings, focusing solely on facts and outcomes.

Despite his apparent coldness, Jaggers is fair and ethical in his dealings with Pip, and his actions indirectly contribute to Pip’s journey of self-discovery. Jaggers’s influence demonstrates the complexity of moral integrity within a legal and social framework, highlighting the blurred lines between justice and personal morality.

Compeyson is the antagonist whose actions set much of the plot in motion. A charming conman, he is responsible for jilting Miss Havisham and for the betrayal of Magwitch, leading to the latter’s transportation to Australia. His gentlemanly appearance masks his deceitful and cowardly nature.

Compeyson's manipulation and betrayal serve as a contrast to Magwitch's eventual redemption, emphasizing the novel's exploration of true gentility versus superficial refinement. His demise, drowned during a struggle with Magwitch, highlights the destructive consequences of a life built on deception and treachery.

Molly, Mr. Jaggers' enigmatic housekeeper, is a woman with a hidden past marked by tragedy and crime. She is revealed to be Estella's biological mother, having been "tamed" by Jaggers after being acquitted of murder charges.

Her character adds depth to the intricate web of relationships within the novel, highlighting themes of redemption and the enduring impact of one's past. Molly’s story provides a poignant reflection on the possibility of change and the complexities of justice and compassion.

Uncle Pumblechook is a self-important tradesman and Pip's pompous uncle. He takes undeserved credit for Pip's fortunes, illustrating the novel’s critique of social climbing and pretentiousness. His interactions with Pip provide comic relief while underscoring the shallow nature of societal judgments based on wealth and status.

Bentley Drummle is a minor member of the aristocracy who is acutely aware of his status and not particularly aware of anything else. He is arrogant and stupid, and his attraction to Estella, whom he marries, seems superficial. Unsurprisingly, his marriage to Estella is not a happy one.

Herbert Pocket Sr., Pip's tutor in London, is a well-meaning but ineffective teacher, symbolizing the gap between intent and capability. His chaotic household reflects the challenges of maintaining social pretenses, highlighting the novel’s critique of the educational system and societal expectations.

Startop, a fellow student tutored by Matthew Pocket, becomes a loyal friend to Pip. His involvement in helping Pip and Herbert attempt to secure Magwitch’s escape demonstrates the value of camaraderie and courage within the narrative.

Clara Barley, Herbert Pocket’s loving fiancée, is a soft-spoken and supportive presence within the novel. Her relationship with Herbert highlights the theme of love’s ability to transcend social barriers, and her care for her ailing father showcases her gentle strength and resilience.

Arthur, Miss Havisham's half-brother, is complicit in Compeyson's schemes to defraud her. Haunted by guilt and visions of his wronged sister, Arthur’s downfall illustrates the novel’s exploration of conscience and the consequences of betrayal.

Mr. Wopsle, initially a church clerk who later pursues a theatrical career, provides a satirical lens on ambition and the pursuit of dreams. His comedic presence and eventual recognition of Compeyson emphasize the novel’s critique of societal roles and aspirations.

The Aged Parent, lovingly cared for by John Wemmick, adds warmth and humor to the narrative. His character symbolizes the enduring bonds of family and the comfort of home, contrasting the harshness of London’s legal world.

Sarah Pocket, one of Miss Havisham’s opportunistic relatives, represents the pettiness and greed present within the novel’s portrayal of the upper class. Her character offers a satirical view of familial ambition and the superficial pursuit of wealth.

Miss Skiffins, Wemmick’s eventual wife, embodies practicality and warmth. Their marriage illustrates the theme of genuine affection prevailing amidst the novel’s often cynical view of relationships.

Matthew Pocket, a decent yet overwhelmed tutor, serves as a gentle foil to the more morally ambiguous characters. His inability to control his household contrasts with his integrity, offering insight into the complexities of maintaining personal values against societal expectations.

Trabb's Boy, an apprentice to Mr. Trabb the tailor, provides comic antics that contrast with Pip’s aspirations. His mockery of Pip’s pretensions serves as a reminder of the protagonist’s roots and the novel’s critique of social ambition.

Old Bill Barley, Clara’s father, is a gout-ridden former sea captain whose care reveals family loyalty despite his gruff demeanor. His presence in Clara’s life underscores the novel’s themes of familial duty and love.

Clarriker, the shipping broker who partners with Herbert Pocket, plays a role in Pip’s eventual redemption. His partnership with Herbert illustrates the positive outcomes of Pip’s growth and generosity.

Mrs. Belinda Pocket, a fluttery, helpless woman, the daughter of a knight who had expected his daughter to marry a title.

Alick Pocket,

Joe Pocket,

Fanny Pocket, and

Jane Pocket, other children of the Pockets.

Mr. Trabb, a village tailor and undertaker.

Mr. John (Raymond) Camilla, a toady.

Mrs. Camilla, his wife, Mr. Pocket’s sister. She and her husband hope to inherit a share of Miss Havisham’s fortune.

Pepper, also called The Avenger, Pip’s servant in the days of his great expectations.