Charles Dickens’ “Great Expectations” is a novel that has intrigued and divided critics since its publication in 1861. This article delves into the various perspectives of critics on the novel, examining both its strengths and weaknesses. By analyzing these differing viewpoints, we can gain a deeper understanding of the novel’s enduring relevance and the complex issues it addresses.

Plot Overview

“Great Expectations” follows the life of Philip Pirrip, known as Pip, from his childhood in the marshes of Kent to his adventures in London and his eventual return to his roots. The novel explores themes of social class, ambition, and moral growth, as Pip navigates the complexities of his own expectations and the expectations of others.

Critical Reception

1. Social Commentary

One of the most significant aspects of “Great Expectations” that has garnered critical acclaim is its social commentary. Critics have praised Dickens for his portrayal of the class divide and the impact it has on the characters’ lives.

  • Example: T.S. Eliot, in his essay “Dickens the Novelist,” argues that “Great Expectations” is a “study in class consciousness,” highlighting how Pip’s ambition to rise above his station ultimately leads to his downfall.

2. Character Development

Critics have also focused on the intricate character development in the novel. While some argue that Pip’s transformation is too abrupt, others laud Dickens for his ability to create a protagonist whose journey resonates with readers.

  • Example: Lionel Trilling, in “The Great Gatsby and Other Essays,” writes that “Great Expectations” is “a novel of character,” as it explores Pip’s “struggle with his own nature.”

3. Themes of Ambition and Morality

The themes of ambition and morality are central to “Great Expectations,” and critics have offered mixed opinions on how effectively Dickens addresses these themes.

  • Example: Virginia Woolf, in “Charles Dickens,” suggests that while Dickens presents the “dark side of ambition,” he ultimately “demonstrates that there is no moral or spiritual progress in life.”

4. Style and Structure

The novel’s style and structure have also been a subject of debate among critics.

  • Example: Northrop Frye, in “The Great Gatsby,” compares “Great Expectations” to “Hamlet,” arguing that both novels are “dramas of identity” that rely on complex narrative structures.

Conclusion

“Great Expectations” has sparked a wealth of critical debate, with critics offering diverse perspectives on the novel’s themes, characters, and style. Despite these differing opinions, it is clear that Dickens’ novel remains a powerful exploration of human nature and society, one that continues to captivate readers and critics alike.