Great Expectations is a novel by Charles Dickens, first published in 1861. It tells the story of Pip, an orphan boy who is given a chance to rise from his humble beginnings and make something of himself. Pip is raised by his sister and her husband, the blacksmith Joe Gargery. When Pip is invited to the home of the wealthy Miss Havisham, he meets Estella, the beautiful but cold-hearted daughter of Miss Havisham. Pip falls in love with Estella, and his ambition to become a gentleman is born. Pip is soon given a chance to make his dreams come true when an anonymous benefactor provides him with the means to become a gentleman. Pip moves to London and begins to learn the ways of the upper class. He also meets the convict Magwitch, who reveals himself to be Pip's mysterious benefactor. Pip's newfound wealth and status come with a price, however, as he is forced to confront the truth about his past and his relationships with those he loves. In the end, Pip learns the true meaning of friendship, loyalty, and love.
By Charles Dickens · First published 1861 · Genre: Realistic Fiction, Gothic Fiction, Romance · 59 chapters