Satis House
The manner in which Dickens writes allows him to incorporate symbolism into the first few chapters of this novel. A broad example of this is Satis House, the home of Ms. Havisham. the symbol lies not only around the house itself, but also the occupants of the house. First, Dickens uses astounding imagery to depict the beautiful Gothic house which symbolizes Pip’s view of the upper class. As Pip enters the house he sees the old, fragile Ms. Havisham. The dress she wears is a symbol of degeneration, her wedding feast symbolizes the woman’s past, and the stopped clocks symbolize not only Ms. Havisham’s own dramatic attempt to stop time but also becomes a symbol for Pip’s inability to go back in time, to who he once was. Reflecting on the house again, the outside description is that of crumbling stone, and disintegrating shingles. The atmosphere is dark and dusty. This description comes to symbolize the lesson Pip learns about the wealthy upper class; that they lack moral stability.
Great Expectations 