What is a major universal theme of the novel "Great Expectations"?

Question

I need to do a project where I make a collage containing quotes from the novel and six other artifacts (articles, cartoons, essays, other novels, songs, poems) that refute, support, or qualify the theme.

Answer 1

A theme that is less relevant to us today - the influence held by benefactors over the receivers. Estella and Pip were both poor with few prospects. Both had benefactors, Mrs Haversham and Magwitch.

Mrs Haversham was respected and well thought of, but she used her influence to sour and taint Estella. Magwitch was a crook and despised, but he used his influence to support and enhance Pip. Mrs Haversham wanted to take the happiness from Estella and make her as miserable as she was. Magwitch wanted to take Pip and give him the reputation and and glory that he could never have.Magwitch created and Mrs Haversham destroyed. In teh end the power of good overcame, for although Mrs Haversham and Magwitch passed, the good ness of Magwitch survived and eclipsed the despair of Mrs Haversham so taht Pip and Estella fell in love and lived happily. Was Mrs Haversham evil? Was Magwitch good? these are exciting questions and your answer is as good as any other, Good luck!