Great Expectations · Chapter
LV explained
Pip visits Wemmick, who reveals his plan to marry Miss Skiffins.
What happens
Pip visits Wemmick, who reveals his plan to marry Miss Skiffins. They go to a church where the Aged Parent and Miss Skiffins join them for a wedding ceremony. Meanwhile, Magwitch is taken to court, and Compeyson's death complicates the case. Pip resolves not to claim Magwitch's forfeited wealth. Herbert tells Pip he must leave for Cairo, and Pip considers becoming a clerk in Herbert's firm.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Unrequited Devotion
Wemmick's marriage to Miss Skiffins shows a genuine, affectionate relationship, contrasting with Pip's unrequited love for Estella.
Wealth and Moral Corruption
Pip's decision to forgo Magwitch's forfeited wealth highlights the moral corruption associated with ill-gotten gains and the pursuit of fortune.
Identity and Self-Discovery
Pip contemplates his future as a clerk, moving away from his gentlemanly expectations toward a more humble, self-defined path.
Characters to notice
- Pip
Pip accompanies Wemmick to his wedding, supports Magwitch through his legal troubles, and discusses his future with Herbert.
- Wemmick
Wemmick marries Miss Skiffins in a private ceremony, emphasizing his Walworth sentiment and asking Pip to keep it secret from Jaggers.
- Miss Skiffins
Miss Skiffins marries Wemmick, exchanging her green kid gloves for white ones during the ceremony.
- The Aged Parent
The Aged Parent gives away the bride at Wemmick's wedding, though he is confused about the ceremony's proceedings.
- Herbert Pocket
Herbert tells Pip he must leave for Cairo soon, and they discuss Pip's future as a clerk in Herbert's firm.
- Jaggers
Jaggers is consulted by Pip about Magwitch's case but is querulous about the loss of the fortune.
Key passages
“What I look at is the sacrifice of so much portable property. Dear me!”
Wemmick laments the loss of Magwitch's movable wealth.
Wemmick's pragmatic concern for property over the owner reflects his dual nature.
“Halloa! Here's a couple of pair of gloves! Let's put 'em on!”
Wemmick produces white kid gloves for the wedding.
Wemmick's theatrical surprise reveals his planned marriage to Miss Skiffins.
“This is altogether a Walworth sentiment, please.”
Wemmick asks Pip to keep the wedding a secret from Jaggers.
Wemmick distinguishes his private, sentimental life from his professional persona.