Great Expectations, Chapter 14 summary
Chapter 14 of 59 · 4 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 14, the narrator describes how his apprenticeship to Joe brings misery rather than the pride and independence he once expects from the forge. He credits Joe’s goodness with keeping him at work, while his fear of Estella’s contempt deepens his shame about his ordinary home and occupation.
What happens
- The narrator contrasts his former respect for home and the forge with his present shame about their plainness.
- He finds apprenticeship oppressive and compares his prospects to the low marshes under gathering darkness.
- He never complains to Joe and credits Joe’s faithfulness with preventing him from abandoning his work.
- While working at the forge, he imagines Estella watching him with contempt through the windows.
- Returning indoors for supper makes his home and meal seem even more humiliating.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Great Expectations, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Inizia 90 giorni gratisNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
In this chapter
Quick check
What does the narrator credit with keeping him from running away?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Great Expectations, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Inizia 90 giorni gratisNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
