Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Pip faces a lot of abuse, threats, and difficult situations, complete with foreboding music and characters who are scary to look at. Two main characters die (one engulfed in flames) and Pip nearly dies once. Pip sees criminals hanged. Estella and Miss Havisham are also models of man-hating women, which may offend both sexes and be worth discussing.

Sexual Content

Pip kisses Estella on several occasions, but only on the cheek.

Violence

Lots of foreboding and threats of violence, first by Magwitch, then by Pip's sister. Magwitch threatens to "have your heart and liver out" and to eat it. Pip's sister beats him with a switch. Estella slaps Pip on the face. Herbert and Pip box and Pip knocks Herbert down twice, causing him to bleed. Pip sees criminals get hanged. Miss Havisham's dress catches fire and she dies violently. Several men are nearly killed by a ship's engine.

Language

Lots of abusive language towards Pip, but no swearing.

Social Behavior

Pip steals from his house for a criminal. Pip's sister is abusive, saying she wishes she never had to care for him. Miss Havisham conspires to have Estella break Pip's heart. The overall message, however, is to be true to yourself, regardless of monetary wealth, and to show your true love no matter what.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

The convict chugs brandy and later, Pip and Magwitch share a drink.