Great Expectations

Reiya

1. What do we learn about Pip in the extract?

In this extract we learn a number of things about Pip. We know that both his father and mother are dead; along with five of his siblings, from this information we can deduce that the life expectancy in that day and age was very poor. In addition we also come to learn that Pip is an uneducated young boy of around 8 years; this is because of his dialect and also his actions towards the convict. We also learn that he lives with his sister ‘Mrs. Joe Gargery who is a blacksmiths wife in a marshy country down by the river.

Pip has no photographs of his father or mother however, he has an idea that his father was a ‘square, stout, dark man, with curly black hair’. From this evidence we can come to a conclusion that Pip is quite an imaginative young boy. Moreover we get the impression that Pip’s family is quite well off than most people, as each person who has passed away has their own personal gravestone. Henceforward from the way Pip speaks with politeness and obedience it is clear he had a strict upbringing even though the convict is rude and arrogant toward him.

2. How does Charles Dickens bring the convict to life?

Charles Dickens brings the convict to life by explaining his appearance in detail, also by the way he moves, talks and acts in the situation. ‘While he ate the bread ravenously’ † this quote suggests the convict has not eaten for a long period of time, this creates strong imagery as a real convict would also be very hungry with torn clothes and a scruffy appearance. Furthermore his accent and the way he pronounces his words portray a man that comes from a rough, uneducated background. Similarly, the way the convict laughs harshly in Pip’s face when he finds out both his parents are dead suggests he has no feelings or sympathy what so ever for the young boy.

3. How is the atmosphere created in this extract?

The atmosphere in this extract is created in many ways. Such as: the setting,...