Great Expectations Theme of Contrasting Regions

Contrasting regions in this novel allow readers to further contextualize each place. Each region informs its opposite and highlights the ways lies and deceit play into society. These disparate regions highlight the complexity and multi-dimensional nature of characters, revealing that a character is neither this nor that, but both at once. In considering contrasting regions, readers of Great Expectations are able to gain a more complete picture of the people who dwell in these regions, as well as of the depth of human nature.

1. Why does Wemmick love his castle so much?
2. How is Pip’s hometown different from London?
3. Where is Pip happiest?
4. What role do the marshes play?

Using contrasts and foils, Dickens plays with the struggle between right and wrong that every person experiences in reaching adulthood.

The marshes mirror Pip’s mental landscape.