The language of ‘Great Expectations’ – Charles Dickens

"Great Expectations," written by Charles Dickens, is a classic novel that showcases the
author's mastery of language and his ability to create vivid characters and atmospheric
settings. The language used in the novel is rich, varied, and reflective of the social and
cultural context of Victorian England.
1. Narrative Style: Dickens employs a first-person narrative style in "Great
Expectations," with the protagonist, Pip, serving as the narrator. This choice allows
readers to experience the events of the story through Pip's eyes and emotions, creating
a more intimate connection with the characters. Pip's retrospective narration adds
depth to the language, as he reflects on his past experiences with a mature and often
self-critical perspective.
2. Character Dialogue: Dickens excels in creating distinctive voices for each character,
using dialects and speech patterns to differentiate social classes and personalities. The
dialogue is a crucial element in conveying the characters' backgrounds, motivations,
and relationships. For instance, characters like Joe Gargery, a humble blacksmith,
speak in a simple and sincere manner, while the upper-class characters, such as Estella,
exhibit a more refined and formal language.
3. Descriptive Language: Dickens is known for his elaborate and descriptive prose. The
novel is filled with vivid depictions of the marshes, Satis House, and other settings. The
descriptive language serves not only to create a rich visual imagery but also to convey
the emotional and psychological states of the characters. The use of symbolism and
metaphor is prevalent, contributing to the layered and nuanced nature of the narrative.
4. Social Commentary: Dickens uses language as a tool for social criticism, addressing
issues such as class disparity, social injustice, and the impact of industrialization on
society. Through the characters and their interactions, he highlights the flaws in the
Victorian social structure, drawing attention to the consequences of ambition, wealth,
and societal expectations.
5. Humor and Irony: Dickens infuses humor and irony into the narrative, often through
the use of witty dialogue and satirical commentary. The novel's title itself, "Great
Expectations," can be seen as ironic, as Pip's aspirations and expectations are often
misguided, leading to unexpected outcomes. The humor serves as a means of both
entertainment and social critique.
6. Emotional Resonance: The language in "Great Expectations" is emotionally charged,
conveying a range of feelings from joy and love to despair and regret. Dickens
masterfully captures the complexities of human emotions, making the characters
relatable and the narrative emotionally engaging. The use of poignant language
contributes to the novel's lasting impact on readers.