by Hannah Curtis

Created on: July 21, 2008

In "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens several of the main characters show positive signs of growth in their disposition towards others, outlook in life, and in experience as they mature throughout the course of the novel.

Pip learns important life lessons as he matures into adulthood, and he grows as a person as a result. He begins the story as an impressionable young boy who believes that Miss Havisham is doing a noble act in being guardian to Estella. As he becomes older he realises the appalling interior motive behind Miss Havisham's act, that she is willing to ruin Estella's life, just so she can get her long awaited revenge upon the male sex. Pip's memories and opinion of the old lady changes as a result of this revelation, and he sees her for what she truly really is.

When Pip is a boy he is very humble, polite and has pleasant manners. As a result of the harsh treatment from his sister, he is extremely grateful for the kind attention he receives from his brother-in law Joe, and he really loves him. When he is unexpectedly provided with a fortune and education he swears he will never change and forget good old Joe.

However Pip fails to keep this promise as the wealth goes to his head. His change in fortune alters his character and he grows into a spoilt character, turning from a warm-hearted boy into a gentleman snob once he acclimatises to London society. As a result he treats Joe shamefully when he pays Pip a surprise visit; Pip makes it painfully clear to the audience, Joe and his London friends that he is ashamed of his roots and the rough manners of Joe. While he still lives in London he discovers who his real benefactor is. Abel Magwitch the convict escapes from Australia to see Pip in his new status, and to tell him the truth that he has earned the money to give Pip a better life. Pip has been living under the impression that Miss Havisham was the benefactor, and cannot cope with the truth. His reputation and appearances means everything to him, he cannot believe he has such connections with a criminal.

Pip experiences emotional growth however during his serious illness and he comes to senses when his delirium breaks. He realises how terrible his behaviour has been towards Joe, he re-discovers his love for his roots and family. His body may have been left weakened temporarily by the illness; however he has become a stronger, pleasanter character as a result of it. As Joe points out, the old Pip has returned.

Estella goes through a period of growth

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