If you’re like me and you read “Great Expectations” back in middle school ages ago, the first thing that probably comes to mind is that old feeling of being given a “classic” to read and being unsure what to make of it. Revisiting this book as an adult brings a whole new level of appreciation (and I’ll be honest, a lot of nostalgia). Whether you’re thinking about picking it up for the first time since school or are curious about what makes it stick in so many people’s memories, here’s my take on why “Great Expectations” keeps hanging around as a book worth your time, even if it’s been forty years since your last go.
Why “Great Expectations” Stays Popular
“Great Expectations” is more than just a story they make you read in school. Charles Dickens wrote it back in the 1860s, and even though the world looks nothing like Pip’s, the reasons people love (or gripe about) the novel haven’t really changed much. On its surface, it’s a coming of age story with some old-school mystery. There’s a hidden benefactor, strange fortunes, and plenty of oddball characters. But if you check out the novel more deeply, there are themes around ambition, class, loyalty, love, disappointment, and personal growth that still connect with readers today.
People relate to Pip’s dream of becoming “something greater” and his ups and downs on that ride. Dickens captures that feeling of wanting a better life and not always knowing what that actually means. Add in unforgettable characters like Miss Havisham and Estella, and it’s pretty easy to see why so many folks keep returning to this book, or at least remember parts of it forever.
It’s also interesting that “Great Expectations” has inspired so many writers and filmmakers over the years. From literary adaptations to loose retellings in TV, movie, and stage plays, the book’s influence pops up everywhere. Even graphic novels and modern homages keep Pip’s journey alive in unexpected ways, which just shows how this story still matters today.
About the Plot: A Quick Refresher
The book follows Pip, who starts out as a poor orphan living with his grumpy sister and her kindhearted husband, Joe. After a few strange and dramatic events, like helping a mysterious convict escape and meeting the eerie Miss Havisham, Pip finds out he’s going to be given “great expectations” by an anonymous benefactor. He moves to London, tries to learn how to be a gentleman, and stumbles through awkward relationships and moments of heartbreak. Turns out, getting money and getting what you think you want isn’t so simple.
One thing I always notice with Dickens is how he weaves side characters and little details into his stories. At first, they seem random, but by the end everything ties together. That’s worth keeping in mind if you’re thinking of picking it up again. Sometimes the plot twists and side plots feel slow, but they all play a part by the time you reach the last chapter.
Plus, the storyline is not just about Pip. The supporting cast brings their own intrigue to the table: from enigmatic Estella and tragic Miss Havisham to the comic relief of Wemmick and the complex Joe Gargery. Even the antagonists, like the mysterious convict Magwitch and scheming Orlick, give the novel a layered atmosphere. Their intersecting fates make rereading particularly engaging.
Main Themes and Why They Still Matter
- Ambition and Self-Discovery: Pip’s desire to climb the social ladder isn’t just about money. It’s about identity and realizing what actually matters, which is something I think everyone wrestles with at points in their life.
- Class and Social Barriers: Dickens points fingers at a rigid class system, but his message about feeling left out, trying to “fit in,” or thinking others have it easier still hits home today.
- Relationships and Forgiveness: The Pip and Joe friendship (or kind of father/son relationship) is always my favorite part. The way Pip treats Joe when he’s trying to make it big isn’t great, but Joe’s loyalty shines in the end. Estella and Miss Havisham bring layers to the story too. They show what can go wrong when people chase love or revenge for the wrong reasons.
- Expectations vs Reality: The title says it all. Pip’s journey shows how the things we want and the truths we stumble upon don’t always match up, which can be a hard but honest lesson.
These themes are part of why “Great Expectations” keeps getting attention in book clubs. The lessons about forgiveness, pride, gratitude, and empathy make this classic feel timely even now.
Getting Back Into It: Tips for Returning Readers
If it’s been decades since you tackled this book, here are a few things that make the reread worth it:
- Read At Your Own Pace: Dickens can be wordy (that’s just how they did it back then). There’s no need to try to finish it in a weekend. Enjoy the descriptions, the weird humor, and the clever dialogue.
- Make Use of Annotations: If you struggled with the language or old-fashioned slang as a kid, try an edition with notes or grab an audiobook. It honestly helps so much.
- Watch Adaptations: There are plenty of “Great Expectations” movies and series that can help make the characters and plot stick. They’re also just fun for a lazy weekend.
- Look For The Human Stuff: Pay attention to Pip’s thoughts about self-worth, regret, and hope. As an adult, these moments hit way harder than they did as a teenager.
Also, consider checking out other readers’ experiences online. Book discussion forums or podcasts can shine a light on parts of the novel you might have missed on your first read. Sometimes, these discussions help readers connect with the story in a totally new way.
Challenges With Reading Dickens
No shame in finding “Great Expectations” a slow read. I remember skimming a lot when I was younger, distracted by the long paragraphs and old-fashioned language. Dickens originally wrote his books as serials in magazines, so he stretches things out.
- Old Language: Some of the words and expressions feel ancient. Having some background on Victorian slang or using online resources can really help.
- Big Cast of Characters: It’s easy to lose track of everyone, especially early on. Having a character list on hand is pretty handy.
- Pacing: The story gets going in fits and starts. Once you get past the slow patches, the plot heats up quickly.
The effort pays off, though. Especially with how Dickens ties loose ends together in the last third of the novel.
To make things easier, don’t be afraid to jot down notes or keep a list of character names and relationships as you read. This can help you spot connections and enjoy the payoffs later in the book. And if you ever feel lost, summary guides or even quick recaps online are lifesavers.
Cool Details About “Great Expectations”
- Multiple Endings: Dickens actually rewrote the ending after his friend suggested the original version was too sad. Some editions include both, so you can see the difference.
- Real Life Inspiration: Many believe parts of the book were inspired by Dickens’s own childhood struggles and his father’s time in debtors’ prison.
- Miss Havisham’s Mansion: The spooky house was based on actual decaying mansions Dickens knew from his own life and travels.
Another interesting bit: the book’s serialization meant that each chapter had to keep readers coming back for more, which is partly why there are so many cliffhangers and dramatic reveals throughout the story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Is “Great Expectations” still relevant today?
Answer: Absolutely. Most people, even if they haven’t been to Victorian England, get what it feels like to want more out of life or to feel out of place. The stuff about class, ambition, family, and disappointment still comes up in all kinds of media and conversations.
Question: How hard is “Great Expectations” to read now?
Answer: The language can take a few chapters to get used to, but if you take your time (or listen to an audio version), it’s a lot more manageable. Plus, lots of helpful print and online guides exist to break things down.
Question: Are there modern takes on “Great Expectations?”
Answer: Tons! Everything from Hollywood movies to TV miniseries to young adult novels borrow from the basic themes and twists. There’s even a movie set in 1990s New York if you want a total change of setting.
Worth Picking Up Again?
I honestly appreciate “Great Expectations” a lot more as an adult than I did as a teenager. The characters feel richer, the jokes make more sense, and the plot twists are more satisfying now that I get all the little details Dickens snuck in. Even if Victorian novels aren’t your usual thing, there’s something rewarding about watching Pip stumble, grow, and realize what really counts in life.
If you’ve been thinking about giving it another try, my advice is to go for it, maybe with a cup of tea, a cozy blanket, and the patience you probably didn’t have back in middle school. You might be surprised by how much you remember, and by how much more you notice this time around.
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