We first reviewed class notes highlighting Dickens' role as a social reformer seeking to alert Victorian society to child abuse of the poor, the flaws in the judicial system, and the false values of the upper class. We then focused on the plot's development of the Bildungsroman as we see Pip no longer satisfied with his lower social class as a blacksmith's apprentice. We discussed Pip's shame when he imagines what Estella would think of his grimy environs and his longing to rise to a higher social position as symbolized by the sails he sees on the horizon , a dream beyond reach. Kaitlin has added some very interesting ideas and perspectives to class discussion noting how Pip's longing to better himself financially and educationally is a positive development that Dickens seems to denigrate . We then explored the notion of values: What does one have to sacrifice to improve one's standing? When is it worhwhile?