Questions Chapters 30-39
Great Expectations
In your literature notebook, answer the following questions with detailed and thoughtful responses. For each question, provide at least one quote to support your answer.
1. How does Pip “get even” with Orlick?
2. Why does Pip refer to the codfish and barrel of oysters he sends to Joe as “penitential”?
3. Why does Herbert accuse Pip of “looking into our gift-horse’s mouth with a magnifying glass”?
4. Chapter 31 includes more comic relief for the reader, this time using Mr. Wopsle. Explain.
5. Explain the significance of Newgate Prison? What do you think Dickens is trying to make the reader understand about prisons of that time and what reforms were badly needed?
6. How does Estella appear to Pip in contrast to the prison?
7. Why does Estella go to London, and why is Pip full of misery after seeing her?
8. Why does Pip’s life in London make life difficult for Herbert?
9. What do the boys join, and be sure to provide details about it. What is Dickens satirizing?
10. In what ways has Pip become a less admirable character since moving to London? Which commendable characteristics from his childhood seem to remain? Use specific examples from the novel to support your answer.
11. What tragic event occurs in chapter 35, and explain how it impacts Pip. Additionally, why are Joe and Pip not any closer?
12. How do Pip’s fortunes improve on his 21st birthday? Link your answer specifically to the novel’s title.
13. What plan does Wemmick propose for Pip’s desire to help Herbert?
14. Explain the causes of the argument between Miss Havisham and Estella. Summarize what Estella says to make Miss Havisham sink to the floor and cry. What does this event further tell you about Estella’s character?
15. Identify Pip’s unexpected visitor. Where has he come from and what had he been doing there? What stunning news does he give Pip? When Pip reflects on this news, what painful realizations does he have?