1. Social Class:
* Connotations of Wealth and Poverty: Dickens uses words and imagery to evoke stark contrasts between the lives of the rich and the poor. For example, Miss Havisham's decaying mansion and the cold, damp atmosphere of Joe's forge.
* Connotations of Status and Power: Pip's desire for social advancement is fueled by his exposure to the seemingly glamorous world of Miss Havisham and Estella.
* Connotations of Morality and Deceptiveness: Dickens suggests that wealth can corrupt, as seen in characters like Miss Havisham and the sinister Miss Havisham's and the deceitful character of Estella.
2. Psychological and Emotional:
* Connotations of Loneliness and Isolation: Pip's yearning for connection and belonging are highlighted by the loneliness he experiences in various parts of his life, like his childhood home or his time in London.
* Connotations of Guilt and Shame: Pip's actions, particularly his initial rejection of Joe and his pursuit of Estella, lead him to experience feelings of guilt and shame.
* Connotations of Love and Desire: The complex dynamics of love, desire, and longing are explored through the relationships between Pip and Estella, Pip and Joe, and Pip and his benefactors.
3. Symbolism and Metaphor:
* Connotations of Darkness and Light: The novel often uses these to represent good and evil, as well as Pip's own internal struggles. For example, the shadowy figure of the convict and the brightness of Estella's beauty.
* Connotations of Time and Change: Dickens uses imagery of clocks, decaying buildings, and other symbols to represent the passage of time and the inevitable changes in life.
* Connotations of Expectations and Disillusionment: The title itself carries a significant connotation of expectations, which are often dashed in the novel, creating a sense of disillusionment in both Pip and the reader.
Overall, Dickens uses a range of connotations to create a multi-layered and emotionally resonant narrative. These connotations not only enhance the story's realism but also contribute to its enduring appeal.
It's important to note that the specific connotations of words can change depending on context and the reader's own interpretation. This is part of the richness and complexity of Dickens's writing.