Montreal Dickens Fellowship Study Questions: “Great Expectations"
January 7, 2025
Chapter 37-47
- Guilt is a major theme throughout the novel. Comment on Jagger’s ability to make anyone feel guilty.
- Is money “The Root of All Evil” in this book?
- Give examples of how Dickens uses foreshadowing (the prediction of something to come) to add to the suspense of the novel.
- Pip, in a moment of insight, sees his obsession with Estella as a dark, sick thing and feels dependent, degraded and controlled. Comment on parallels to his own love for Ellen Ternan.
- Do you agree with Pip’s not using Magwitch’s money? Is he being snobbish or noble?
- Does knowing about Compeyson’s treatment of Magwitch and his treatment of Miss Havisham change your feelings about Magwitch?
- What are Magwitch’s motives in being Pip’s benefactor?
- Dickens often shows emotions through inanimate objects. Comment.
- What growth in Pip’s character do we see as the novel progresses?
- Is Molly a murderess? Discuss in terms of the theme of secrecy.