WHATS THE STORY?

Why did Charles Dickens write the novel you're reading/reviewing? What in your analysis of literary techniques led you to this conclusion? (Make sure to include textual support illustrating Dickens' use of at least three techniques we've studied/discussed this year.)

Charles Dickens wrote the novel Great Expectations for the purpose of criticizing social classes, as well as the manner in which we follow examples or regulations that are set out for us. Dickens does this by using diction and syntax. He clearly defines the illiteracy of the lower class through the use of colloquialism, and the highly educated diction of the upper class. In a way Dickens seems to be implying that this gap needs to be closed, not only for certain people that are chosen, but for all. He also seems to criticize social classes through major characterization. We easily see how he describes the upper class, greedy in a sense, stuck up (Estella is a major example here), self-centered (Pip only caring about his own "expectations," completely forgets about the people that brought him up, especially people that loved him like Joe and Biddy), or even moldy, dusty, and cold-hearted (talking about Miss Havisham here). Through characterization we also see the hypocrisy of the social classes. For example, what compelled Pip's guardian to choose him? Why did Pip all of a sudden have a change in heart, from loving and admiring Joe and his work ethic, to completely despising where he came from? Another technique Dickens uses is ethos.  This he uses to show how we look up to a superior to tell us what to do and what to accomplish. In this case, the superior would not only be Jaggers, but the person who is conducting Jaggers, we also see the superiority of Jaggers above Pip and Wickman.