Paper Abstract
A 6 page essay, which argues that in Great Expectations, one principal image-money- can be seen to pervade the novel and influence all action. In many ways, Great Expectations differs markedly in theme from Dickens' previous works, such as Oliver Twist. Mongentaler attributes this to the controversy that arose following the publication of Darwin's Origin of the Species in 1859. Dickens began work on Great Expectations in October of 1860, which gives chronological credence to this argument (Mongentaler 707). While much of Mongentaler's interpretation of Dickens is debatable, evidence cited from Dickens' text certainly verifies the importance of the image of money in creating and developing Dickens' basic themes. It is through Dickens' manipulation of the image of money, and the symbolism that is imparted to it, that enables Dickens to make specific points in reference to personality formation (heredity versus environment); the class systems; and the nature of criminality. Bibliography lists 4 sources.
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