GREAT
EXPECTATIONS
STAGE II Talking Points
Chapter 32
1.
2.
3.
4.
How long does Pip await Estella’s coach at the coach office? What does this reveal about Pip?
Pip accompanies Wemmick to Newgate Prison, and along the way, he observes how Wemmick moves
among the prisoners. What is “Wemmick’s greenhouse”? Explain this metaphor.
What does Wemmick ask one of the prisoners to give him since the prisoner is going to be executed?
As Pip still awaits Estella’s coach, why does he wish he had not accompanied Wemmick to the prison?
Chapter 33
5.
Why has Estella traveled to London? After she tells Pip all the arrangements he must take care of for her
trip to Richmond, she comments on their mutual situation. What does she say? Cite text evidence (256).
6. Estella’s attitude towards Pip. Text evidence? (257)
7. When Estella speaks about her life, she is bitter and resentful, and tells Pip that fortunately, he was not
raised by Miss Havisham. What word does she use to describe her realization of Miss Havisham’s
character?
8. After Pip attempts to kiss her cheek again, Estella reverts to a commanding tone. What is the metaphor
that Pip uses to describe them? What does it reveal?
9. As Estella and Pip pass Newgate, what motif do Estella and Pip allude to? (260)
10. When does Estella call Pip by his name for the first time? Significance?
11. What is the irony of Mr. Pocket’s lecture and what has occurred at his own home?
Chapter 34
12. Pip’s recurring feelings of guilt and dissatisfaction with self.
13. Finches of the Grove and the effect of that club on Pip.
Chapter 35
14. Mrs. Joe’s death and its effect on Pip
15. Dickens’s ridicule of funeral customs
16. Pip’s conversation with Biddy after Mrs. Joe’s funeral.
Chapter 36
17. Pip’s conversation with Jaggers when he “comes of age”
18. Pip’s conversation with Wemmick about his desire to help Herbert
Chapter 37
19. Pip’s visit to Walworth; characterization of Miss Skiffins and the Aged
20. Wemmick’s response to Pip’s desire to help Herbert (the Walworth version)