Great Expectations (A Norton Critical Edition)
The newly established text is based on all extant materials and is accompanied by several textual essays.
"Backgrounds" provides readers with an understanding of Great Expectations's inception and internal chronology. A discussion of the public-reading version of the novel is also included. A wonderfully rich "Contexts" section collects thirteen pieces, centering on the novel's major themes: the link between author and hero and, relatedly, Victorian notions of gentility, snobbishness, and social mobility; the often brutal training, at home and at school, of children born around 1800; and the central issues of crime and punishment.
"Criticism" gathers twenty-two assessments of Great Expectations, both contemporary and modern, which offer a range of perspectives on Dickens and his novel.
"Backgrounds" provides readers with an understanding of Great Expectations's inception and internal chronology. A discussion of the public-reading version of the novel is also included. A wonderfully rich "Contexts" section collects thirteen pieces, centering on the novel's major themes: the link between author and hero and, relatedly, Victorian notions of gentility, snobbishness, and social mobility; the often brutal training, at home and at school, of children born around 1800; and the central issues of crime and punishment.
"Criticism" gathers twenty-two assessments of Great Expectations, both contemporary and modern, which offer a range of perspectives on Dickens and his novel.
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Community Reviews
I am of the opinion that you cannot read Dickens in a rush. The minority low ratings of this book seem to be filled with accusations that Great Expectations is “slow”, “boring”, or “dull.” I think this sentiment is largely a result of the readers lacking the luxury (or patience) to slow down to Dickens pace. This is an author, after all, who rented a commercial boat to sail down the river just to make sure he could write accurately about obscure landmarks for his characters.
The book itself is excellent. You will find that the specificity of emotion and the afflictions of conscience that this book elucidates will stir your own sensitivities in an unusual way. The shame the protagonist feels is relatable and understandable, as are his mistakes. Every good deed will be celebrated inwardly as though you also were an accomplice to its benevolence. If you are at all interested in or afflicted with the concepts of classism, shame and guilt, personal identity, or personal maturity, this book will greatly delight you.
Lastly, I wish I had more friends who had read this book, even if it were just to be able to discuss the characters if Estella and Miss Havisham. It bewilders me that these two females, as well as Satis House, are not more iconic and famous/infamous in today’s culture. They are controversial, engaging, puzzling, and enlightening; easily two of Dicken’s most commendable constructions! Enjoy!
The book itself is excellent. You will find that the specificity of emotion and the afflictions of conscience that this book elucidates will stir your own sensitivities in an unusual way. The shame the protagonist feels is relatable and understandable, as are his mistakes. Every good deed will be celebrated inwardly as though you also were an accomplice to its benevolence. If you are at all interested in or afflicted with the concepts of classism, shame and guilt, personal identity, or personal maturity, this book will greatly delight you.
Lastly, I wish I had more friends who had read this book, even if it were just to be able to discuss the characters if Estella and Miss Havisham. It bewilders me that these two females, as well as Satis House, are not more iconic and famous/infamous in today’s culture. They are controversial, engaging, puzzling, and enlightening; easily two of Dicken’s most commendable constructions! Enjoy!
Reread this classic, remembering much of the plot. Forgot how much Pip cried and his lack of confidence. Nature v nurture - poor Pip. What would Pip do today?
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