Unlocking the American Dream: A Deep Dive into the English Review of 'Great Expectations'

Charles Dickens’ “Great Expectations” is a classic novel that delves into the complexities of ambition, social class, and the American Dream. This article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the English review of the novel, exploring its themes, characters, and the author’s portrayal of the American Dream.

The Setting and Context

“Great Expectations” is set in 19th-century England, a period characterized by rapid industrialization and social change. The novel’s setting reflects the juxtaposition of wealth and poverty, which is central to the story’s exploration of the American Dream.

The Characters

Pip

The protagonist, Pip, is a young orphan raised by his sister and her husband, Joe Gargery, a blacksmith. Pip’s journey from a modest background to the pursuit of wealth and social status is the backbone of the novel. His transformation is both a critique of the American Dream and a reflection of the social realities of the time.

Miss Havisham

Miss Havisham is the wealthy spinster who bequeaths a fortune to Pip, with the intention of seeing him marry her adopted daughter, Estella. Her character symbolizes the dark side of the American Dream, where wealth and power are used to manipulate others.

Estella

Estella is Miss Havisham’s adopted daughter, raised to be beautiful and cold-hearted. Her character represents the idealized version of the American Dream, where wealth and beauty are the ultimate goals.

Joe Gargery

Joe Gargery, Pip’s brother-in-law and mentor, is a humble blacksmith who represents the working class. His character serves as a contrast to Pip’s ambition and the pursuit of wealth.

The American Dream

“Great Expectations” explores the American Dream through the lens of Pip’s transformation. The novel questions whether the pursuit of wealth and social status can truly bring happiness and fulfillment. Dickens portrays the American Dream as a complex and often destructive force.

The Pursuit of Wealth

Pip’s initial motivation for pursuing wealth is his desire to impress Estella and Miss Havisham. However, as he grows richer, he becomes more isolated and disillusioned. The novel suggests that wealth can lead to loneliness and a loss of identity.

Social Status

Pip’s ambition extends beyond wealth to the pursuit of social status. He seeks to elevate himself from his working-class roots and join the upper class. However, this pursuit is fraught with challenges and moral dilemmas, as he discovers the true nature of the upper class.

The Dark Side of the American Dream

The novel also examines the dark side of the American Dream, as represented by Miss Havisham. Her wealth and power are used to manipulate Pip and Estella, leading to their respective sufferings. This highlights the idea that the American Dream can be a source of pain and suffering, rather than happiness.

Conclusion

“Great Expectations” is a rich and complex novel that offers a critical examination of the American Dream. Through its characters and setting, Dickens explores the pursuit of wealth, social status, and the potential consequences of these ambitions. The novel serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers that the American Dream is not always the path to happiness and fulfillment.