"Great Expectations".

Throughout society, many people always think they want something, yet they truly do not. There is always a constant struggle within oneself to remain true. William Shakespeare has said, "To thine own self be true." This quote ultimately says that people should be who they are and nothing else. In Charles Dickens' novel Great Expectations, he agrees with this quote. One of Dickens' major themes is that one should only be who they are. Through the use of literary elements such as characterization and plot, this theme is apparent. Through the characterization of Pip, one can see the contrasts of his happiness throughout his journey. This relates to when he is himself, and when he is no longer who he really is.

Throughout Great Expectations, the characterization of Pip varies greatly as the plot progresses. In the beginning of Volume One, Pip is young and without his property. On page 50, Dickens writes, "I believe that I dated a new admiration of Joe from that night.

Charles Dickens (1812-1870)

Copy of Sketch of Charles Dickens

Copy of a Photograph of Charles Dickens

We were equals afterwards, as we had been before... I was looking up to Joe in my heart." With this quote, one can see many things. Pip is characterized loyal andas having much admiration for Joe. With the direct phrase of "looking up to Joe in my heart," one can see how much Joe means to Pip. There is mention of them being equals and a huge sense of happiness. It can properly be interpreted that Pip is characterized as being happy, with the keywords of "admiration" and "heart". However, when Pip's life starts to change regarding social status, he himself changes as well. On page 63, it is written, "As I cried, I kicked the wall, and took a hard twist at my hair; so bitter were my feelings.." This quote displays Pip's...