Great Expectations: Writer’s Techniques

Characterisation

In “Great Expectations”, Charles Dickens creates vivid and memorable characters. From Pip’s humble, intuitive character to Estella’s cold and aloof disposition, each individual is multifaceted, making the story very engaging.
The dynamic qualities of characters are visible, such as Pip’s transformation or Mrs. Joe’s unexpected softness, making insights into human nature extremely identifiable.
The author’s complex character development allows readers to understand the depth of their struggles - thus creating empathy.

Settings and Imagery

Dickens uses detailed and distinct settings, from the gloominess of Satis House to the menacing marshes and vibrant London. These settings not only accentuate the mood but also mirror the characters’ states of mind.
Symbolic places such as the graveyard, forge and Satis House represent various themes such as death, comfort, decay and misery respectively.
The author uses rich imagery and metaphors; the often bleak and monotonous descriptions of the environment reflect the moods and conditions of characters, enhancing dramatic effect.

First-Person Narration

The novel is told in first person, offering personal insights into Pip’s feelings, thoughts and experiences. Such a narrative voice engages readers and helps them invest emotionally in the story.
Dickens utilises Pip’s retrospective narration technique which allows the reader to know the story from an older, wiser perspective while experiencing the character’s journey in real-time.
The first-person narrative allows the readers to relate to Pip, and experience with him the uncertainties, failings, and complexities of life.

Use of Irony

Irony features significantly in “Great Expectations” - for example, when Pip assumes Miss Havisham is his benefactor when it’s actually Magwitch.
This dramatic irony helps create suspense and reflects upon Dickens’ critique of Victorian society and its values.
Situational irony also serves to highlight the difference between appearances and reality, and the often-complex consequences of our actions.

Foreshadowing

Dickens effectively uses foreshadowing to hint at future events, such as Pip’s encounter with the convict and the later revelation of his benefactor.
This keeps the reader engaged in the narrative, building anticipation and creating a sense of inevitability.
The subtle foreshadowing places “Great Expectations” as more complex and thoughtfully constructed, heightening its literary value.

Remember, understanding the writer’s techniques and how they influence the story’s progression can provide deeper insights into the novel and its themes. Highlight how these techniques are employed when discussing the novel’s narrative, character development, and underlying messages.