Pip, the main character of Great Expectations, constantly ascribes the truth to that which only seems to be true. Self-delusion is one of the main themes that Dickens carefully develops through the plot as well as the characters. Pip constantly deludes himself to believe whatever appears to be reality. He is unable to distinguish between the real and the facade. In the very beginning of the story, Pip recalls

`My first memories regarding what my family members were like were unreasonably derived from their tombstones.'

Pip deliberately deludes himself to believe everything that he wishes to believe. The whole plot is linked to the theme of self-delusion and almost all the characters have been represented as deluded by Dickens.

After Pip's visit to Satis House, where he meets Miss Havisham and Estella, Pip entertains fancies of becoming a gentleman. When Pip receives assistance from an unknown benefactor...