Second Stage

When Mr. and Mrs. Pocket are introduced, it might seem as if they have little to do with the themes and motifs of Great Expectations. However, upon closer examination, we find that many of their actions and characteristics have a strong correlation with the purpose of the novel thus far. For instance, Mrs. Pocket longs for social status and position, a power that she feels she has been robbed of. Mr. Pocket, on the other hand, is content to remain as he is and maintain a realistic and sensible approach to their lives. While their personalities seem to clash several times during Pip's visit, it is important to see their relationship to another two characters in the book (in correspondence to the Doubles motif).

Pip and Joe have a similar relationship. Pip longs for status as well, while Joe would be happy to remain a blacksmith for the rest of his life. While he would not begrudge Pip his great expectations, he is more apt to maintain an unromantic view of the world. When Pip observes the chaotic atmosphere of the Pocket's household, he seems unable to reflect upon their relationship as a contrast to his own. In fact, Mrs. Pocket's struggle with the life she has and the life she feels she deserves makes him uncomfortable. This shows how removed Pip is from his childhood. He views the world only in relation with his own desires and thoughts, and so fails to experience objectivity. His obsession with social growth leaves him cold and subjective, and his inflated ego leaves him unable to see the similarities between himself and those around him.