Great Expectations Theme of Innocence

Great Expectations is a novel about the loss and rediscovery of innocence. Innocence is lost when it is introduced to society and to a societal value system. This encounter establishes a habit of self-consciousness and self-absorption within in the protagonist leading to his ultimate denial of his identity. Innocence is understood as the human state of being unaware of any other values than one’s own and it is characterized by a solid sense of identity.

1. When are the words "innocence" and "innocent" used in this novel?
2. When, if ever, does Pip lose his innocence?
3. Why does Pip care what Estella says and why does he kick the garden wall after his first visit to Satis House?
4. Innocence is often associated with childhood. Who are the children in this novel, and what are they like?

In Industrial Revolution life, everyone has a defined social role. Pip’s overreaching sets him back to a pre-Industrial utopia in his personal life.

When Pip is introduced to "society" as defined by Miss Havisham, his innocence is lost.