Great Expectations by Charles Dickens

by Charles Dickens

Overview

Great Expectations is a timeless classic novel written by the renowned Victorian author, Charles Dickens. It is a coming-of-age story that takes the reader on a journey through the life of its protagonist, Pip, as he navigates the challenges of growing up, discovering his identity, and realizing his dreams.

The novel is set in early 19th-century England, and it opens with Pip, a young orphan boy, living with his abusive sister and her husband, the blacksmith Joe Gargery. One day, while visiting the graves of his parents, Pip encounters an escaped convict who threatens him into stealing food and a file from his brother-in-law's forge. The incident sets in motion a chain of events that will shape Pip's future.

Soon after, Pip is invited to the home of the wealthy Miss Havisham to play with her adopted daughter, Estella. Pip becomes infatuated with Estella, and Miss Havisham encourages his feelings, hoping to train Estella to break men's hearts. Pip is eventually introduced to the lawyer Mr. Jaggers, who informs him that he has been granted a large sum of money from an anonymous benefactor, and that he is to be trained as a gentleman.

Pip moves to London and begins his training, but he soon realizes that his new life is not all he had imagined. He becomes estranged from his childhood friend, Biddy, and finds himself struggling to fit in with the upper class. Meanwhile, his mysterious benefactor is revealed to be none other than the convict he had helped years ago, who had amassed a fortune in Australia and returned to England to help Pip.

As Pip's expectations are shattered and his illusions are stripped away, he learns valuable lessons about love, loyalty, and the true meaning of wealth and success. He ultimately comes to realize that his most valuable asset is his own integrity and the love of those who have supported him throughout his journey.

Great Expectations is a complex and multi-layered novel that explores themes of social class, identity, redemption, and the power of love and loyalty. It is a timeless masterpiece that has captivated readers for generations and continues to inspire and challenge readers today.

Product Details

BN ID:	2940160719443
Publisher:	Paul Calamusa
Publication date:	04/18/2023
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	667 KB

About the Author

Charles Dickens (1812-1870) was an English writer and social critic who is widely regarded as one of the greatest novelists of the Victorian era. Born in Portsmouth, England, he had a difficult childhood as his father was imprisoned for debt when Dickens was just 12 years old. This experience left a profound impact on Dickens and informed his writing, particularly his deep concern for the poor and oppressed.

Despite his limited education, Dickens began his career as a journalist and soon turned to writing fiction, publishing his first novel, The Pickwick Papers, in 1836. He went on to write many other notable works, including Oliver Twist, Nicholas Nickleby, David Copperfield, Bleak House, and A Tale of Two Cities.

Dickens was a master storyteller and his novels often dealt with social issues such as poverty, injustice, and inequality. He used his writing to expose the harsh realities of Victorian England, while also creating unforgettable characters and engaging plots that captured the imagination of readers.

Throughout his life, Dickens was also involved in various philanthropic endeavors and was a passionate advocate for social reform. He traveled extensively and gave many public readings of his work, becoming a celebrity in his own time.

Today, Charles Dickens remains a beloved and influential figure in English literature, with his works continuing to be studied and appreciated by readers of all ages around the world.

Date of Birth:

February 7, 1812

Date of Death:

June 18, 1870

Place of Birth:

Portsmouth, England

Place of Death:

Gad's Hill, Kent, England

Education:

Home-schooling; attended Dame School at Chatham briefly and Wellington