Pip: Main Character of Great Expectations Explained

Pip, short for Philip Pirrip, is the narrator and main character of Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. We meet him as a scared little orphan in a graveyard—and follow his story as he grows up, makes mistakes, and slowly learns what truly matters in life.

He’s one of literature’s most honest, relatable characters. Why? Because we see everything through his eyes—even when he’s wrong.

Personality Traits

• Kind-hearted: Even as a child, Pip shows kindness—like when he helps the convict Magwitch.
• Ambitious: He dreams of a better life and wants to rise above his “common” background.
• Easily ashamed: After visiting Miss Havisham’s wealthy world, he becomes embarrassed by Joe and his own upbringing.
• Regretful: As an adult, Pip looks back on his mistakes with deep guilt and honesty.

What Drives Pip?

At first, love and pride. He thinks:

• To be worthy of Estella, he must become rich and “refined.”
• Becoming a gentleman will solve his problems.

But later, he learns that:

• Money and class don’t make someone good.
• Real worth comes from loyalty, love, and character.

How Pip Changes

Pip goes through one of the biggest transformations in the book:

By the end, he makes peace with Joe, values Biddy, and stops chasing the shallow dream of “great expectations.”

Key Moments

• Helping Magwitch as a child—shows his early kindness.
• Getting money from a secret benefactor—thinks it’s Miss Havisham, but it’s really Magwitch.
• Drifting from Joe—he’s ashamed of Joe’s rough manners.
• Realizing his mistake—when Magwitch is revealed as the benefactor, Pip feels deep shame.
• Returning home—he cares for Magwitch and later apologizes to Joe.

Famous Line

“That was a memorable day to me, for it made great changes in me. But it is the same with any life. Imagine one selected day struck out of it, and think how different its course would have been.”

Why Pip Matters

Pip is more than just a character—he’s a lesson in growing up.

He reminds us:

• It’s okay to get lost—but we have to find our way back.
• Real love and loyalty come from people who stand by you, not those who look impressive.
• We often understand life best when we look back.