Great Expectations: Symbolism

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to Pip, it did
not mean anything to Estella as she was just playing with Pip's emotions.

The character of Magwitch represents the symbols of isolation and the tragic
hero. In this case, he was physically isolated from society because he was a
convict and was looked upon with disgust. When Magwitch confesses and apologizes
to Joe for stealing the food, Joe replies "poor miserable fellow creatur." [43].
Magwitch also illustrates the symbol of the tragic hero. Throughout most of the
book, Magwitch is looked down upon by Pip. Magwitch talks about his gratitude
for Pip when he helped him as a convict many years ago. "You acted noble, my
boy," said he. [356]. "Noble Pip! And I have never forgot it!" [356]. He shows
why he is a hero when he explains to Pip that he was the benefactor and the one
responsible for making him a gentleman and helping him achieve his great
expectations. "Yes, Pip, dear boy, I've made a gentleman on you! It's me wot
done it!" [359-360]. After his death, however, ...

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