In the classic Dickens novel, Great
Expectations, Pip redeems himself when he ceases to be selfish. Having
rejected Joe because he was "coarse," Pip avoids visiting the forge, staying at the Blue
Boar Inn whenever he visits Estella. He prefers the company of Herbert and the other
gentlemen of London, while also aspiring to attain the love of what he perceives his
young lady of fortune, Estella. In Chapter 40, Magwitch, who goes by Provis and risks
his life by coming to London to visit Pip, embarrasses Pip by his arrival. Repulsed by
his crude manners and the idea that he, rather than Miss Havisham, is his benefactor,
Pip strives to rid himself of the old convict. However, when he and Herbert try to
effect Provis's escape onto a ship, Provis is mortally injured. At this point, Pip
feels pity for the old man who has had such an unfortunate past. So, he tends him and
consoles Provis in his final moments, praying at the end for his
soul.
In another unselfish act in Chapter 49, Pip first
forgives Miss Havisham for her cruel exploitation of him as one on whom Estella has
practiced Miss Havisham's revenge upon the male race. Later as he returns to her
quarters, he rescues the pathetic woman who has sat too close to the fire. Pip is
burned in his efforts--a cleansing by fire, so to speak. Coming to aid the injured and
sick Pip is his old friend, Joe Gargery. When he comes to himself, Pip begs Joe to
forgive him for his rejection. Of course, Joe heartily replies, "Ever the best of
friends, Pip, old chap." Clearly, Pip's unselfish attempts to save both Provis/Magwitch
and Miss Havisham are redemptive actions.
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