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A review by kba76
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
emotional
funny
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Pip’s story is one that feels familiar, even before you turn the pages. A young boy, brought up by his sister and her husband, who has a run—in with an escaped convict. For his kindness on this occasion, Pip is remembered. After being taken to Statis House to meet Miss Havisham and her beautiful ward, Estella, Pip harbours dreams of one day being worthy of this young girl. His expectations are close to being met when a mysterious benefactor awards him a generous sum of money and an annual income. The only stipulation is that he must ask no questions as to the origins of his fortune. Pip, having higher opinions of himself than are perhaps warranted (and turning his back on those who could have counselled him) squanders his opportunity and ends the book in much the same financial situation as he started, though wiser.
There are so many recognisable scenes and characters in this book. As I came across each I felt on familiar territory, even though I don’t recall ever having read the book before.
As with any Dickens there’s a huge cast of characters, some more memorable than others. There’s the expected authorial voice commenting on social issues and telling us how we should see each person. In Joe Gargery and Herbert Pocket we have two of the most genuine characters created. And in Pip we have an insufferable idiot who comes close to throwing everything away for the allure of money and reputation. Thankfully, by the end of the novel he is a little more self-aware.
This may well be regarded as one of Dickens’s best works. It is, as always, eminently readable and full of scenes that stand out vividly. For the frustration I felt at Pip’s character throughout I can’t award five stars.
There are so many recognisable scenes and characters in this book. As I came across each I felt on familiar territory, even though I don’t recall ever having read the book before.
As with any Dickens there’s a huge cast of characters, some more memorable than others. There’s the expected authorial voice commenting on social issues and telling us how we should see each person. In Joe Gargery and Herbert Pocket we have two of the most genuine characters created. And in Pip we have an insufferable idiot who comes close to throwing everything away for the allure of money and reputation. Thankfully, by the end of the novel he is a little more self-aware.
This may well be regarded as one of Dickens’s best works. It is, as always, eminently readable and full of scenes that stand out vividly. For the frustration I felt at Pip’s character throughout I can’t award five stars.