Student Essay on Pip's Maturity

Pip's Maturity by Charles Dickens

Essay

Through his experiences Pip matures into a responsible and sensitive man. For example, Pip's feelings deepen for Magwitch. Initially, Pip felt a sense of repulsion in accepting the convict as his benefactor. Pip restrains from his original feelings, and, at risk of his own life, hides his new friend from the law. By telling Magwitch his daughter lives, Pip sets an old man's heart at rest. Allowing Magwitch a peaceful death illustrates how Pip grew to care for him. In addition, Pip is finally able to identify Joe as a true gentleman and a foil to London's upper class snobs. Restricting Pip from associating with anyone below his stature, including Joe, are his great expectations of being a gentleman. As Pip realized how hurt Joe felt, he apologized, taking responsibility for his past wrongs. To reimburse Joe, Pip becomes an honest, hardworking man and refuses to return home until he repays his entire debt. Furthermore, Pip becomes a more sensitive friend to Herbert. Pip pulls Herbert blindly into a life of extravagance, resulting in high debts. However, when Pip begins to grow in character, he anonymously sends Herbert money to help with his debts. In the end Pip becomes a caring friend Herbert can trust. Because of events in his life, Pip evolves into a unselfish and trustworthy individual.