# Chapter VII explained — Great Expectations

> Chapter companion for Great Expectations by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

Pip reflects on his early education and his relationship with Joe. Joe shares his own difficult childhood and his deep affection for Pip, while also revealing his fear of Mrs. Joe's domineering nature. Pip begins to admire Joe more deeply and continues his studies with Biddy's help.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Class and Ambition

Joe's fear that learning might make him 'rise' like a rebel reflects the class constraints of the time.

### Family and Belonging

Joe's tender recounting of taking Pip in and their bond as 'ever the best of friends' highlights the theme of found family.

## Character check-ins

### Pip

Reflects on his limited education and his growing admiration for Joe.

### Joe Gargery

Shares his childhood story, his love for Pip, and his fear of Mrs. Joe's temper.

### Biddy

Helps Pip with his studies and runs the shop for Mr. Wopsle's great-aunt.

### Mrs. Joe Gargery

Mentioned as being domineering and out on a market day trip with Uncle Pumblechook.

### Mr. Pumblechook

Mentioned as accompanying Mrs. Joe on market day trips.

### Mr. Wopsle

His great-aunt runs the village school; he occasionally 'examines' the scholars with dramatic readings.

## Key lines

> Ever the best of friends; an't us, Pip? Don't cry, old chap!

We are always the best of friends, aren't we, Pip? Please don't cry.

_Joe comforts Pip after Pip becomes emotional over Joe's story of taking him in._

> Your sister is given to government.

Your sister is controlling and likes to be in charge.

_Joe explains Mrs. Joe's domineering nature to Pip._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/great_expectations_se/chapters/vii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/great_expectations_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/great_expectations_se/chapters