Illustration of Pip visiting a graveyard

Great Expectations

by Charles Dickens

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What is London's symbolic importance in Great Expectations?

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London in Great Expectations symbolizes the pinnacle of success and civilization during the 19th century, representing the industrial and cultural zenith of the time. For Pip, it embodies ambition, social mobility, and the opportunity to transcend his humble beginnings. The city contrasts sharply with his rural upbringing, highlighting his aspirations and the social divide between the "haves" and "have nots." It also reflects Pip's evolving attitudes and his quest for self-discovery and acceptance.

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There is quite a symbolic importance of London in Great Expectations. The time period covering the events in Great Expectations is 19th century London, particularly the year 1860. During this time, the Industrial Revolution had reached its climax, and London was on its way to become the top power in the world, with inventions that propelled world history. 

The best way to understand it as a modern reader is by locating what city in the 21st century is the most tech-savvy, cosmopolitan, culturally-varied, sophisticated and, above all, rich. Well, that was London in the mid 19th century. A small city that carried with it a lot of history, activity, atmosphere, and immense fortune. 

Now, contrast that to Pip's humble beginnings in the marshes, where he was literally living the exact opposite of what life in London was like. London, to someone like Pip represents the ultimate milieu...

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in terms of success. London is, in the novel, the equivalent of civilization; a world where only the most successful go and where all things are possible. 

farewell, monotonous acquaintances of my childhood, henceforth I was for London and greatness; 

Therefore, London offered the opportunities that so many would have wanted to succeed in life. London is also the conduit through which Pip goes back and forth in the quest for himself and in the process of letting go of his past. London is not just a city, but a social setting that separates the "haves" from the "have nots" in a very dramatic way. 

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In Great Expectations, what is the symbolic importance of London?

For one thing, London has represented for a very long time the fact that one has established oneself.  Pip going there to be educated and to possibly find employment is a huge step up from the plans once etched out for him--becoming Joe's apprentice and learning how to be a blacksmith.  London is where things happen and where lots of gentlemen find their fortunes which is exactly what Pip is hoping to do since his wishes include being good enough to marry Estella.

London also represents Pip's changing attitude toward his humble upbringing.  When Joe visits Pip in London, Pip is embarrassed and horrified by Joe's lack of manners.  Pip becomes a stuck up and condescending ingrate.

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