# Chapter XXIV explained — Great Expectations

> Chapter companion for Great Expectations by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

Pip settles into his new life in London, begins his education under Mr. Pocket, and negotiates with Mr. Jaggers for funds to furnish his rooms. He also visits Wemmick at his office, learns about his collection of curiosities from deceased clients, and observes Jaggers in a police court, where he displays his formidable legal prowess.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Class and Ambition

Pip's education and financial arrangements with Mr. Pocket and Jaggers underscore his rise in social status and the practicalities of maintaining his new position.

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Wemmick's collection of curiosities from criminals and his advice to observe Jaggers's housekeeper hint at hidden truths and the deceptive nature of appearances.

## Character check-ins

### Pip

Pip establishes himself in London, begins studies with Mr. Pocket, and negotiates with Mr. Jaggers for money to buy furniture.

### Herbert Pocket

Herbert is mentioned as Pip's companion at Barnard's Inn, whose society Pip values for improving his manners.

### Mr. Matthew Pocket

Mr. Pocket becomes Pip's tutor, arranging his studies and placing himself on confidential terms with him.

### Jaggers

Jaggers approves Pip's request for money, pays him twenty pounds, and is later seen in a police court dominating proceedings.

### Wemmick

Wemmick explains Jaggers's professional manner, shows Pip his collection of curiosities from deceased clients, and invites him to visit Walworth.

## Key lines

> He knew more of my intended career than I knew myself, for he referred to his having been told by Mr. Jaggers that I was not designed for any profession, and that I should be well enough educated for my destiny if I could 'hold my own' with the average of young men in prosperous circumstances.

Mr. Pocket understood Pip's future better than Pip did, explaining that Jaggers had said Pip needed no specific career, only enough education to compete with other wealthy young men.

_This reveals the vague nature of Pip's 'great expectations' and the social expectations placed upon him._

> Through his way of saying this, and much more to similar purpose, he placed himself on confidential terms with me in an admirable manner; and I may state at once that he was always so zealous and honorable in fulfilling his compact with me, that he made me zealous and honorable in fulfilling mine with him.

Mr. Pocket's sincere and honorable approach to teaching inspired Pip to be equally dedicated and honest in return.

_Highlights the mutual respect and integrity in Pip's relationship with his tutor._

> 'Get hold of portable property.'

Wemmick's guiding principle is to acquire assets that can be easily moved and owned.

_Reflects Wemmick's pragmatic and somewhat cynical view of wealth and security._

## Links

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