Great Expectations by Charles Dickens

2500 Words5 Pages

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens

'Great Expectations' was written by Charles Dickens in 1861. 'Great

Expectations' is a coming of age story that revolves around the life

of one man Pip. From the time he was seven years old until he was in

the mid thirties, Pip shows us the important events in his life that

shaped who he became. Along the way, he enquires many different

acquaintances and friends that influence him in his decisions and

goals in his life. 'Great Expectations' is a story that the public can

relate to because at some point, everyone goes through the struggles

that Pip must battle. It shows that possessions and wealth do not

change who people are inside, and that finding one's self can be a

long process until finally everything becomes clear.

'Great Expectations' discusses various themes on crime, law and the

criminal justice system. Through the novel Dickens displays his point

of view of criminality and punishment. This is shown in his portraits

of all pieces of system: the lawyer, the clerk, the judge, the prison

authorities and the convicts. He uses characters such as Mrs Joe

Gargery and Magwitch to define people's common views about crime and

punishment and how it is explored through the character Magwitch.

The prison system in England may have had a significant effect on the

life and writing of Charles Dickens due to his father's imprisonment

John Dickens worked as a clerk at the Navy Pay Office. Having seven

children, John Dickens found it difficult to provide for his growing

family on his meagre income. In 1822 the family moved to Camden Town

in London. John Dickens debts had become so severe that all the

...

... middle of paper ...

...'When the evidence was put short, a

forehand, I noticed how heavy it all bore on me, and how light on

him.' Compeyson made Magwitch look like the one who had arranged it

all and hence the one who was most guilty of the crime. Inevitably,

Magwitch received the heavier punishment of fourteen years, whereas

Compeyson got off with seven years. Dickens shows, in the character of

Magwitch, how many so-called criminals are basically good people, how

the crimes of a "gentleman" like Compeyson are far more harmful in

their consequences, and how the legal system enables the rich to

oppress the poor. In chapter 54, Dickens shows how Pip's attitude

towards Magwitch changes. Pip tries to help him escape on board a

steamer. At the end of the chapter after Magwitch has been caught, we

see how Pip's feelings for Magwitch have changed.

Open Document