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Charles Dickens, one of the most celebrated novelists of the 19th century, possessed a remarkable ability to craft characters that elicit empathy from readers. His novels often explore themes of social injustice, poverty, and the human condition, and through his vivid descriptions and intricate characterizations, he invites readers to connect deeply with his protagonists. In this essay, we will delve into Dickens' techniques for creating empathetic characters by examining two key extracts from his work: one featuring Pip from "Great Expectations" and another featuring Miss Havisham and Estella from the same novel.
Even in the early stages of "Great Expectations," the reader can discern something special in the character of Pip.
He is portrayed as a resilient survivor, having been the only one out of six siblings to survive birth. This background sets the stage for the reader to sympathize with his challenging circumstances. Pip's life is characterized by loneliness and submissiveness, as he often finds himself at the mercy of his domineering sister and various other figures in his life, including Miss Havisham and Estella.
One pivotal moment that evokes sympathy for Pip occurs in the third paragraph of the novel when Dickens describes Pip as a "bundle of shivers" rather than simply as a young boy.
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This choice of words paints a vivid picture of Pip's vulnerability, conveying the image of a trembling child in need of protection. Dickens skillfully uses setting to mirror Pip's emotional state, creating a connection between the character and his environment.
The introduction of the convict Magwitch in the narrative adds an element of fear and danger to Pip's life.
Dickens employs a gradual reveal of Magwitch's menacing qualities, describing him initially with longer, more detailed descriptions that create a sense of foreboding. As the encounter progresses, Dickens switches to shorter, one-word descriptions that intensify the character's frightening presence. Magwitch's threats and the physical danger he poses to Pip amplify the reader's sympathy for the young protagonist.
Dickens further deepens our connection to Pip by using emotive language to describe him. Words like "pleaded in terror," "trembling," "timidly explained," and "helplessness and danger" evoke a strong emotional response from the reader. Pip's politeness and respectfulness, even in the face of imminent harm, highlight his moral character and resilience. This portrayal of Pip as a well-mannered and fearful child tugs at the reader's heartstrings, eliciting empathy for his plight.
In the first extract, Dickens employs a repetitive technique to heighten tension and emphasize Pip's vulnerability. The repeated commands from Magwitch, each followed by Pip's compliance, underscore the power dynamic at play. Pip is repeatedly placed in perilous situations, reinforcing the fear he experiences. This technique effectively engenders sympathy for Pip and the challenges he faces.
Another pivotal moment in "Great Expectations" occurs when Pip is summoned to meet Miss Havisham and Estella for the first time. This encounter serves as a turning point in Pip's life, marking the beginning of his aspiration to rise above his social station. Dickens presents this scene through Pip's recollection, allowing readers to gain insight into his thoughts and emotions during and after the event.
The initial descriptions of Miss Havisham's house are simple but gradually become more specific, mirroring Pip's gradual understanding of his surroundings. The house is depicted as a dull and eerie place, setting the stage for the discomfort Pip experiences. It is important to note that Pip's visit to Miss Havisham's home is not of his own choosing but is orchestrated by his sister with the expectation of securing an inheritance, underscoring Pip's lack of agency.
The dialogue between Pip and Miss Havisham is crucial in this extract. Miss Havisham's cold and emotionless demeanor towards Pip highlights the power imbalance between them. Through rhetorical questions like "You are not afraid of a woman who has never seen the sun since you were born?" Miss Havisham asserts her authority and control over Pip. Pip, despite his fear, strives to please her, a reflection of his eagerness to fulfill societal expectations and his sister's wishes.
Estella's arrival further intensifies Pip's feelings of inadequacy. Her disdain for Pip based on his common appearance and her consistent use of "boy" instead of his name emphasize her belief in her own superiority. Pip's growing sense of shame and self-consciousness, especially regarding his lower social status, deepens the reader's empathy for him.
Pip's inner turmoil is palpable as he grapples with his own sense of inferiority. He desires to transcend his "common" identity and become more than a "common labouring-boy." His inner conflict and self-doubt resonate with readers, as many can relate to the universal human desire for self-improvement and societal acceptance.
The use of degrading language by Miss Havisham and Estella when offering Pip food reinforces the power dynamic and class distinction. Phrases like "let him have something to eat" and "roam and look about him while he eats" dehumanize Pip and make him feel like an outcast. This treatment, combined with Pip's realization that he is perceived as inferior, elicits sympathy from the reader.
In conclusion, Charles Dickens masterfully employs various literary techniques to create characters that inspire empathy in readers. Through descriptive language, dialogue, and the portrayal of societal injustices, Dickens invites us to connect emotionally with characters like Pip in "Great Expectations." We empathize with Pip's struggles, his yearning for self-improvement, and his resilience in the face of adversity. Dickens' ability to evoke such deep empathy is a testament to his enduring impact on literature and his keen understanding of the human experience.
An Analysis of Character Empathy in Charles Dickens' Works. (2017, Oct 29). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/pip-in-great-expectations-by-charles-dickens-essay
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