GE stage 2

 In the second stage of Great Expectations there are many new characters that Pip encounters. One of these is the Pale Young Gentleman that he had previously fought with at Miss Havisham's house. This time they are introduced differently, and Pip learns that the Pale Young Gentleman is really Herbert Pocket. (pg. 173-175.) Pip and Herbert become friends at once and are so excited by this new friendship they decide to be roommates. This is a coincidence in the book because they had first met, Pip had been rather frightened of him, and then beat him in their fight (though when they meet again Herbert remembers himself winning). Herbert also agrees to help Pip with his manners to make him a better gentleman. 

     The two boys meeting each other and becoming friends relates to the motifs we have been talking about in class of becoming a gentleman, and mystery. Herbert helps Pip with his manners and therein allowing him to be a better gentleman. This is good for Pip because Pip wants to be a gentleman so badly, but he is used to the manners from his lower class life. Pip is being taught by Herberts father, but more school type things rather than how to eat properly. Herbert also tells Pip about Miss Havisham and Estella. He clears up why she is in her wedding dress with the food rotting and the clocks stopped at 8:40. This is because the man she loved sent her a note on their wedding day at the exact time, and she has remained stuck there since. Herbert also tells Pip that Miss Havisham adopted Estella. That clears up some of the mystery surrounding Miss Havisham and Estella, but still leaves some holes. Who was the man that left Miss Havisham on their wedding day, and why did he decide to leave her and split money with her brother instead? How and when did Miss Havisham adopt Estella? These are all questions that are left open and continue the mystery motif created in the first stage.