Great Expectations Characters
The main characters in Great Expectations are Pip, Miss Havisham, Estella, and Abel Magwitch.
- Philip "Pip" Pirrip is an orphan with aspirations of one day being a gentleman. He falls in love with Estella.
- Miss Havisham is a bitter old woman who was jilted at the altar on her wedding day. She teaches Estella to break men's hearts.
- Estella: a beautiful young orphan, raised by Miss Havisham to be cold and aloof.
- Abel Magwitch is a former convict whom Pip meets while visiting his parents' graves. Abel secretly becomes Pip's benefactor as thanks for Pip's assistance in aiding Magwitch's escape.
All Characters
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...
(Read more)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...
(Read more)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...
(Read more)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...
(Read more)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...
(Read more)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...
(Read more)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...
(Read more)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...
(Read more)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...
(Read more)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...
(Read more)Mr. Jaggers
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.
Expert Q&A
Why does Mr. Jaggers refer to Magwitch as likely to visit Pip in London?
Mr. Jaggers refers to Magwitch as likely to visit Pip in London by using innuendo and legal caution. He implies Magwitch is still in New South Wales, a penal colony, to protect himself and Magwitch, as Magwitch's return to England is illegal. Jaggers carefully avoids directly acknowledging Magwitch's presence in England, instead pretending to communicate through a person named Provis. This approach allows Jaggers to maintain plausible deniability while hinting at Magwitch's real intentions.
Mr. Jaggers' Role and Influence on Pip's Understanding of His Great Expectations
Mr. Jaggers plays a crucial role in shaping Pip's understanding of his "great expectations." As the intermediary between Pip and his benefactor, Jaggers initially presents Pip with the opportunity for social advancement. His stern demeanor and professional detachment also influence Pip's perception of wealth and class, highlighting the complexities and moral ambiguities of his newfound status.
Mr. Jaggers's perception of Mr. Drummle in Great Expectations
In Great Expectations, Mr. Jaggers perceives Mr. Drummle as a capable but morally questionable individual. He recognizes Drummle's potential for success but is also aware of his brutish and unscrupulous nature, which makes him wary of Drummle's character.
Compeyson
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.
Expert Q&A
What quote best characterizes Compeyson in Great Expectations?
Compeyson's character in Great Expectations epitomizes the corruption and injustice of the Victorian judicial system. He is described by Magwitch as a smooth-talking, educated gentleman, skilled in deception and manipulation. Compeyson is heartless and calculating, orchestrating schemes that ensnare others, including Magwitch, whom he makes his pawn. Despite his criminal activities, Compeyson's social standing allows him to receive a lighter sentence than Magwitch, highlighting societal inequities.
Molly
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.
Expert Q&A
What is Molly's past in Great Expectations?
Molly's past in Great Expectations includes being Mr. Jaggers' housekeeper and having a history of being accused of murder. Jaggers defended her, arguing she was too small to overpower the victim, and she was acquitted. She is also revealed to be Estella's mother and Magwitch’s wife, with Jaggers arranging Estella’s adoption.
Uncle Pumblechook
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.
Expert Q&A
What are some dark traits of the character Mr. Pumblechook in Great Expectations?
Mr. Pumblechook in Great Expectations embodies dark traits such as hypocrisy, envy, and exploitation. He is class-obsessed and shows no genuine affection for his relatives, including Pip. Pumblechook is greedy, valuing wealth over personal relationships, as seen when he fawns over Pip after learning of his "great expectations." He falsely claims credit for Pip's success, exploiting him for social gain, thus highlighting his shallow and self-serving nature.
Why does Pip stay with Uncle Pumblechook in Great Expectations?
Pip stays with Uncle Pumblechook before his first visit to Miss Havisham's house because Pumblechook is involved in arranging the visit. Pip dislikes Pumblechook, who is arrogant and treats him poorly, focusing on arithmetic and frugality. Pumblechook takes credit for the visit, hoping it will benefit Pip due to Miss Havisham's wealth. Although the visit initially seems to enrich Pip, it later reveals complexities about his fortune's origins.
Uncle Pumblechook's Role in Great Expectations
In Great Expectations, Uncle Pumblechook provides comic relief and exemplifies the superficial admiration of wealth. He is portrayed as pompous and self-important, often mistreating Pip while pretending to do so for his benefit. Living on High Street in the market town, Pumblechook is a corn-chandler who falsely claims familiarity with Miss Havisham to enhance his status. As Pip's fortunes rise, Pumblechook hypocritically claims credit for Pip's success, further highlighting his insincerity.
Bentley Drummle
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
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
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
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 Havisham
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Expert Q&A
In Great Expectations, how is Matthew Pocket going to assist Pip?
Matthew Pocket assists Pip by serving as his tutor when Pip arrives in London to become a gentleman. Pocket, a Cambridge graduate, is tasked with educating Pip to "hold his own" among prosperous young men, as directed by Mr. Jaggers. Beyond academics, Pocket also exemplifies the qualities of a true gentleman, offering Pip a model of kindness and consideration, despite his frustrations with family life.
Trabb's Boy
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
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
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.
Expert Q&A
Who is Clarriker in Great Expectations?
Clarriker is a shipping merchant in Great Expectations who helps Pip secure a clerk job for Herbert Pocket without Herbert knowing Pip is paying his wages. Clarriker employs Herbert, who later proves his worth and is sent to Egypt. After Magwitch's death, Pip also joins Herbert in Egypt, working under Clarriker.
Mrs. Belinda Pocket
Mrs. Belinda Pocket, a fluttery, helpless woman, the daughter of a knight who had expected his daughter to marry a title.
Mrs. Camilla
Mrs. Camilla, his wife, Mr. Pocket’s sister. She and her husband hope to inherit a share of Miss Havisham’s fortune.
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