XL explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Social Class and Ambition

  Magwitch's desire to make Pip a gentleman and Pip's revulsion at his coarse manners highlight the tension between social aspiration and inherent class markers.

• Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

  Pip's attempts to disguise Magwitch's convict nature through clothing and powder fail, underscoring the futility of hiding one's true identity.

• Crime and Injustice

  Magwitch's return to England is a capital offense, and his branded past is inescapable, reflecting the harsh legal consequences for transported convicts.

Characters to notice

• Pip

  Pip confronts Jaggers to verify Magwitch's identity as his benefactor, then struggles with disgust and fear while arranging Magwitch's disguise and lodgings.

• Jaggers

  Jaggers confirms that Magwitch is Pip's benefactor, emphasizing his strict adherence to fact and cautioning Pip not to commit himself or anyone else.

• Magwitch

  Magwitch, now calling himself Provis, is staying in Pip's chambers; he eats ravenously, smokes, and expresses his desire to see Pip live as a gentleman, despite Pip's aversion.

• Wemmick

  Wemmick is mentioned as having sent particulars of Pip's address to Provis on behalf of Magwitch.

Key passages

• “I have been informed by a person named Abel Magwitch, that he is the benefactor so long unknown to me.”

  Pip tells Jaggers that Magwitch has revealed himself as the secret benefactor.

  Pip confirms the truth of his great expectations' origin.

• “Take nothing on its looks; take everything on evidence. There's no better rule.”

  Jaggers advises Pip to rely on evidence rather than appearances.

  Jaggers emphasizes his legalistic worldview.

• “What I was chained to, and how heavily, became intelligible to me, as I heard his hoarse voice...”

  Pip realizes the heavy burden of his connection to Magwitch.

  Pip feels trapped by his obligation to his benefactor.