Charles Dickens’ “Great Expectations” has been a staple in the literary world for over a century. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its rich narrative, complex characters, and profound themes. This article aims to delve into the critics’ reviews of the novel, exploring the various perspectives and insights that have shaped our understanding of this classic work.
Introduction to “Great Expectations”
“Great Expectations” is a novel that follows the life of young Pip, a boy from the marshes of Kent. The story is set against the backdrop of early 19th-century England and explores themes of social class, ambition, and the nature of truth and justice. Through Pip’s journey, Dickens presents a critique of the societal structures of his time and the human emotions that drive individuals to pursue their dreams.
Critical Reception of “Great Expectations”
1. Early Reviews
Upon its publication in monthly installments between 1860 and 1861, “Great Expectations” received mixed reviews. Some critics praised the novel for its vivid characters and compelling narrative, while others criticized it for its excessive sentimentality and moralizing.
Example Review: John Blackwood, a contemporary critic, wrote in the Edinburgh Review:
“Mr. Dickens has, indeed, brought to the surface of his story all the emotions of which he is capable; and the reader, whether he approve or not, must admit that the book is full of feeling.”
2. Twentieth-Century Interpretations
In the 20th century, critics began to explore the novel’s complex themes and characters more deeply. They focused on the psychological and social factors that influenced Pip’s development and the novel’s broader commentary on society.
Example Critic: Virginia Woolf, in her essay “Great Expectations,” argues that the novel is a study of the human psyche:
“Great Expectations is not a book about what happens to Pip; it is a book about what happens in him.”
3. Modern Analysis
Contemporary critics continue to analyze “Great Expectations” from various perspectives, including postcolonial, feminist, and Marxist interpretations. These analyses have enriched our understanding of the novel’s layers of meaning and its relevance to modern readers.
Example Analysis: In a postcolonial reading of the novel, critic Aihwa Ong argues that the novel can be seen as a critique of colonialism and the impact of colonial power dynamics on individuals:
“Great Expectations can be read as a narrative of colonial encounter, where Pip’s experiences with the Esthews and Miss Havisham reflect the complex interplay of power and desire in colonial contexts.”
Themes Explored in Critics’ Reviews
1. Social Class and Ambition
Critics have frequently discussed the role of social class and ambition in shaping Pip’s character and the novel’s narrative. The contrast between the worlds of the wealthy Miss Havisham and the lower-class Pip is a central theme in the novel.
Example Analysis: Feminist critic Elaine Showalter notes the ways in which Pip’s ambition is tied to his desire to gain social status:
“Pip’s ambition is not simply a quest for wealth or social position but a quest for recognition and respect from others.”
2. Morality and Justice
The moral and ethical dilemmas faced by Pip throughout the novel have been a subject of much debate. Critics have examined the novel’s exploration of themes such as forgiveness, redemption, and the nature of justice.
Example Analysis: In his review, critic Harold Bloom argues that the novel ultimately questions the concept of justice:
“Great Expectations challenges the reader to consider whether justice can ever be truly achieved, or if it is merely an illusion.”
3. Memory and Reality
The relationship between memory and reality is another recurring theme in the novel. Critics have analyzed how Pip’s memories of his past influence his present and future decisions.
Example Analysis: In her essay, critic Hermione Lee discusses the ways in which Pip’s memories shape his understanding of himself and the world:
“The novel is a meditation on the nature of memory and how it shapes our identity.”
Conclusion
“Great Expectations” has been a subject of critical analysis for over a century, and its rich narrative and complex themes continue to captivate readers. The various perspectives offered by critics have deepened our understanding of the novel and its relevance to our own lives. As we continue to explore the hidden gems within this classic work, we are reminded of the enduring power of Dickens’ storytelling and the timeless nature of the human experience.