Great Expectations

Charles Dickens remains one of the giants of English literature, not least because of his novel Great Expectations. Dickens handles the trials and tribulations of the hapless Pip with a mix of insight and sly wit, beloved by readers since its first publication. Running through the novel, too, is a strong moral message; Pip ultimately faces hardships for his delusions of grandeur and his neglect of the people who really care about him - Joe, for instance.

Dickens wrote two endings to the novel; the original, more downbeat conclusion, and a more traditional "happy" ending, which he wrote on advice of his friend, Edward Bulwer-Lytton. Though some critics have heavily criticized this new ending, it is the opinion of this writer that it has certain merits. Specifically, Estella's fate in the revised ending does appear to be better handled, as I will outline in this essay.

In the revised ending, Estella's disastrous marriage to Drummle is treated as a source of redemption. He mistreats and beats her - scourges her, if you will. As Estella says herself, "I have been bent and broken, but - I hope - into a better shape." (page 439) The severe treatment is more than simple just deserves (although we must admit, there is some of that). It serves as a turning point, a crucible in which Estella matures. As a result, the door is left open to some sort of relationship between Pip and Estella.

This may seem a stunning about-face, and indeed, it is precisely that. However, one may consider the character's background. Estella has been rich, and therefore coddled, for her entire life. She can easily and cavalierly abuse her suitors, for she has known nothing of severe emotional distress herself. Drummle's harsh treatment finally perturbs the famously imperturbably Estella, and so it is reasonable to believe that she would turn over a new leaf. It also functions as a punishment of sorts, thus satisfying the reader's likely hatred for the "old" Estella.

As Pip points out earlier in the novel, it does not seem natural for someone to be so completely closed to any sort of emotional involvement. Dickens' alterations may go against the prevailing mood of pessimism in the novel, but they also serve to turn Estella into a human being. In the revised ending, she ceases to be an untouchable avatar of Feminine Obstinacy, and becomes something far more recognizable - a spoiled and decadent child who must ultimately face the harsh realities of life. It is this shift of characterization which redeems the revisions.