Great Expectations by Charles Dickens was published August, 1861. This book is considered to be the genres of Novel, Bildungsroman, Graphic novel, Social criticism, and Fictional Autobiography. The book Great Expectations was initially published in parts in a magazine titled "All the Year Round." There are 544 pages in the book, although it is long, it is definitely worth the read. Dickens presents a real life story which is very plausible. He delves into themes such as family, social class, reputation and wealth through the main character Pip.   

 

Charles Dickens is known for his witty and ironic stories yet he still represents realistic aspects of life. His books captured aspects of his childhood that influenced or scarred him. 

 

Great Expectations follows the story of Pip, an orphan, as he grows up and obtains an anonymous benefactor. This book is one of intrigue and unexpected tie-ins. Through his eccentric characters, the reader observes differences of society and the good and bad parts.  

 

The main themes in Great Expectations are: 

1. Social Class 

"I thought how Joe and my sister were then sitting in a kitchen, and how Miss Havisham and Estella never sat in a kitchen, but were far above the level of such common doings." (Chapter 9) 

2. Wealth 

Many of the characters such as Mr. Jaggers and Miss Havisham were haughty and pompous. They flaunt their wealth or status like a badge of honor. 

"We spent as much money as we could, and got as little for it as people could make up their minds to give us." (Chapter 34) 

3. Reputation and Integrity  

"I was too cowardly to do what I knew to be right, as I had been too cowardly to avoid doing what I knew to be wrong." (Chapter 6)