I defined the term "social justice" and discussed Dickens as a novelist with a social reform agenda with respect to : education for the poor, the treatment of children, and the criminal justice system. Marcel took notes on these topics and pointed out examples from the opening chapters of what today would be considered child abuse and educational malpractice.We then explored the theme of guilt that haunts Pip throughout the novel. We studied quotes from the text where Pip explains his guilt in terms of cowardice to do either the right thing or to refuse to do the wrong thing. As the novel progresses, we will see more of Dickens' indictment of the criminal justice system but today I discussed the function of the prison ships or Hulks we see in the opening chapters, as well as the punishment of permanent banishment to Australia even for non-violent crimes. Marcel studied portions of the text that illustrate Joe's compassion and did a good job characterizing Joe and in discussing how Joe's violent childhood and lack of education shape his character. We last reviewed Marcel's study guide responses on the first chapters, and refined or modified responses where necessary. For homework due Thursday, read chapters 9-11 and complete accompanying study guide questions.