Characterisation is one
of the interesting areas in Dickens's novels and this is also true for Great
Expectations. Dickens here presents a vast gallery of characters with
different propensities and desires. The success of Dickens lies in his ability
to attach social and moral significance in the activities of each of these
characters.
Art of Characterisation in “Great Expectations”:
Although Dickens
depicts a number of characters, the central attraction of the novel is the
growth of Pip from childhood to maturity. The 'Great Expectations' of
the title is basically the 'great expectations' of Pip. Pip is
born and grown up in hostile circumstances, which offer him nothing but a sense
of insecurity and helplessness. He is in such a position from which he wants an
escape route. Again, as a sensitive boy, he is hurt by Estella's scorns for
being "a common labouring-boy". All these rouses his "great
expectations", which means becoming a wealthy and fashionable
gentleman. The novel portrays how money debases him, as he cuts off his
connection with Mr. Joe, and Biddy and runs after Estella. Finally, he is
brought back to normality by the revelation that his real benefactor is the
convict Magwitch. Thus Pip's character is an example of how a harsh and rude
society works on an individual.
Dickens's
characterisation is full of depth and variety. Thus, Herbert Pocket has very
little money, but he is a gentleman. He teaches Pip elegant table manners, but
he reminds him that manners are meaningless unless they derive from sound moral
principles. Wemmick has two distinct personalities: a cool professional while
under Jaggers, but a passionate man while in the family. Magwitch's character
is a reminder of the social injustice. Although, he is a convict, he possesses
a passionate heart. Orlick, on the other hand, is a bad character, who takes
delight in doing evil.
Dickens has portrayed
some characters with special mental propensities. Thus, Miss Havisham is a
lonely woman who wants to freeze the time and uses Estella to break the heart
of her male lovers. Estella herself possesses a stony heart where genuine love
is a forbidden word. Jaggers will not take a single step beyond his
professional boundary. Nevertheless, all three characters seem to show some
sign of humanity. Both Havisham and Estella can know their mistakes. There is
also a benevolent heart behind Jaggers's professional coolness.
Dickens portrays some
minor characters who are simple and usually do not change throughout the novel.
Joe and Biddy are embodiment of goodness. Joe is eternally kind and faithful.
On the other hand, Mrs. Gargery is a nagging wife. Pumblechook is a cunning
character, who claims himself as Pip's first benefactor.
Dickenss show
considerable strength in his art of characterization. Some of his characters
respond to the external circumstances, some not. These characters are
remarkable for their energy and vitality.
I love the novel
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