Expectations of a gentleman

Overview Every family and person in the 19th century was placed in a certain class, and like Pip, not everyone was happy with their place in society. The working lower class made up most of the general population at the time, and almost every one of those men would’ve given anything to move up a few classes and become a so called Gentleman. Lower class Upper class gentlemen

Summary A Gentleman does not work and is considered upper class. Gentlemen live lavishly and usually, if not always, inherit their wealth. A Gentleman’s lifestyle is relatively easy, but along with it, come some expectations to this lifestyle. At the beginning of the book, Pip knows little about this Gentlemen life he wishes to lead. His main focus was to become a gentleman to impress Estella, as he starts off poor and ashamed of his social position. Gentlemen are expected to always dress appropriately, and be social. Since most gentlemen are born into their position, they gradually learn they ways and manners. But, since Pip is suddenly moved into this new life, it is hard for him to adjust to the new ways.

Connections to great expectations Pip is a blacksmiths apprentice, but as soon as he visits Mrs. Havisham, he falls in love with her adopted daughter, Estella. Estella calls him common, and Pip suddenly feels ashamed of his position as a blacksmiths apprentice. Pip then realizes his dream of becoming a gentlemen to win over Estella’s heart.

Questions! -Why did Pip want to become a Gentleman? -What class are Gentlemen placed in? -What are Pip’s great expectations?

Resources/works cited “The Gentleman.” The Gentleman. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Jan. 2017 “What it means to be a Gentleman In Great Expectations.” Carilynn J. N.p., 23 Apr. 2013. Web. 25 Jan. 2017 n.d. Web. 25 Jan. 2017 Nelson, Walter “Manners for the Victorian Gentleman. Gentleman.” Manners for the Victorian Gentleman Mass Historia.” N.p., Web. 25 Jan. 2017 n.d. Web. 25 Jan. 2017