Great Expectations is perhaps the only novel in the English language with two published and completely divergent endings. (the original /and the revised)Matthew discussed the differences between the two endings as well as which one he preferred and why. Based on class discussion, I placed on the board elements of a "good" or "entertaining" ending : tying up loose plot ends , rewarding good moral character, fulfilling romantic expectations. Using these criteria, Matthew examined both endings and noted how the revised ending ties up loose ends and rewards those with good moral character. Matthew argued that both Pip and Estella are changed and reformed thus justifying the implicit conclusion that Pip and Estella one day will be together. We then focused on what makes a strong literary ending within the bildungsroman genre. After reviewing characteristics of the genre, we parsed the original ending where Pip and Estella do not end up together . Matthew offered many interesting comments and insights as to why both endings could support an ending consistent with the bildungsroman, while I tended to the view that the original ending better supports the genre and is necessary for Pip's journey of self discovery to have meaning. I noted that there is no clear or right answer to this inquiry and that the two endings have been endlessly compared and their value debated. I noted that Dickens ,however, obviously decided to publish the more hopeful revised ending to please his audience who would not have embraced a narrative where Pip and Estella do not at least have some hope of remaining in each other's lives.