Books

1861. London: Chapman & Hall, 1861. 3 vols. 8vo, (iv), 344; (ii), 351, (1); (ii), 344 pp. Three quarter morocco, green cloth sides, marbled edges and endpapers, backstrips with raised bands, ruled in gilt, with red and green title labels. Backstrips and board edges a little worn and scuffed, contents near fine with only very occasional spotting. A unusually bright set internally with the armorial bookplates of Jonathan Latimer Collens and small ticket of the renowned Chaucer's Head bookshop in each volume. § First edition, first issue in book form, with no edition statements on the title page. An unusually fine copy with all the necessary points in Clarendon Appendix D and all points noted by Smith save for the two which he noted appeared only in Sadleir's copy. Bound without terminal adverts to vol. III; Smith states that not all copies were issued with adverts. Smith I, 14.

"Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens is a bildungsroman that traces the life of Philip Pirrip, commonly known as Pip, from his childhood to adulthood. The story unfolds against the backdrop of Victorian England, delving into themes of social class, ambition, love, and personal growth. The novel begins with Pip living with his sister and her husband, the blacksmith Joe Gargery, in a humble environment in the marshes. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters the escaped convict, Abel Magwitch, who terrifies Pip into stealing food and a file for him. Despite the fear instilled by the convict, Pip helps him, a gesture that sets in motion a chain of events altering the course of his life. Pip's life undergoes a dramatic change when he receives an offer to be educated as a gentleman by an unknown benefactor. Believing it to be from the reclusive and wealthy Miss Havisham, he moves to London and begins a new life, leaving behind his humble origins. In London, Pip falls in love with Estella, Miss Havisham's adopted daughter, who has been raised to break men's hearts. However, Pip's infatuation with Estella leads to heartache and unfulfilled expectations, as she remains emotionally distant. As the story progresses, Pip discovers the true identity of his benefactor, which is not Miss Havisham but the convict, Magwitch, whose fortunes have significantly changed. This revelation shatters Pip's perception of wealth, social standing, and true values. Despite the shocking truth, Pip develops genuine affection for Magwitch. The novel culminates in a series of revelations and moral reckonings. Pip faces his past, comes to terms with his misconceptions, and learns valuable lessons about love, loyalty, and humility. He realizes that true wealth and happiness do not necessarily reside in material riches or social status but in human connections and moral integrity. "Great Expectations" is celebrated for its intricate plot, vivid characters, and Dickens' critique of social hierarchy and the human condition. It remains a timeless classic, captivating readers with its exploration of personal growth, societal norms, and the complexities of human relationships.