WHAT'S THE STORY

I think Dickens wrote this novel not only to show the time period, but to show his views on the time period, which we see through his interpretation of the characters and his attitude towards them. The following quote shows the setting of Miss Havisham and the wealth she soaked in, "She was dressed in rich materials - satins, and lace, and silks - all of white. Her shoes were white. And she had a long white veil dependent from her hair, and she had bridal flowers in her hair, but her hair was white. Some bright jewels sparkled on her neck and on her hands, and some other jewels lay sparkling on the table." Page 49 This not only shows the state in which Miss Havisham, the richest woman around, lives in, but also shows her depression. I believe this quote is description or even imagery, but also has symbolism. The color white symbolizes her bland life, never seeing daylight, never changing her apparel, and never giving up her past. The white resembles the constant and unchanging lifestyle that Havisham lives. This quote shows Dickens attitude towards the rich and especially Mr. Jaggers, "'Very well; then you may go. Now, I won't have it!' said Mr. Jaggers, waving his hand at them to put them behind him. 'If you say a word to me, I'll throw up the case.'" Page 143 This shows how Mr. Jaggers is so wealthy and has so many clients that he can be rude and uncaring because he knows he will have another person lined up behind that one. This following quote shows how Dickens revealed his thoughts and story in a creative way and with a good use of figurative language, "All the truth of my position came flashing on me; and its disappointments, dangers, disgraces, consequences of all kinds, rushed in in such a multitude that I was borne down by them and had to struggle for every breath I drew." Page 275 This is a great line that has alliteration, personification, and wonderful diction that makes the book interesting to read.