Summary:
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens is a coming-of-age novel that follows the life of Pip, an orphan raised by his abusive sister and her kind husband, Joe Gargery. Pip’s life changes when he encounters an escaped convict, Magwitch, and later, the wealthy and eccentric Miss Havisham, who raises her beautiful but cold-hearted ward, Estella.
Pip dreams of becoming a gentleman, especially after receiving financial support from a mysterious benefactor. Believing it to be Miss Havisham, he aspires to win Estella’s love. However, he later discovers that his benefactor is actually Magwitch, the convict he once helped. This revelation forces Pip to reconsider his values and expectations.
As Pip matures, he realizes that true worth is defined by character, not wealth or social status. He eventually reconciles with Joe and learns humility, love, and redemption. The novel explores themes of social class, ambition, morality, and personal growth, making it one of Dickens’ most enduring works.

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Question | Answer |
Book Name | Great Expectations |
Author | Charles Dickens |
Year Published | 1861 |
Genre | Bildungsroman (Coming-of-age novel) |
Setting | Early 19th-century England |
Main Themes | Social Class, Ambition, Morality, Redemption |
Main Characters | Pip, Estella, Miss Havisham, Magwitch, Joe Gargery, Mr. Jaggers |
Symbolism | Satis House (decay of wealth), The mist (moral confusion), Fire (destruction and transformation) |
Literary Significance | One of Dickens’ greatest novels, explores class struggles and personal growth |