The theme of the rich and poor in Great Expectations by Charles Dickens Throughout the novel there are many themes, one of which is that of the rich and the poor. This theme is introduced by the background description on the initial pages. In this novel the attitudes of the wealthy relatives, (Uncle Pumblechook), are in great contrast to those of the lower financial class, Joe and Mrs. Joe. Special food is reserved for when wealthier relatives arrive; this is a movement of respect. Throughout the novel, Pip chases wealth and when he finally obtains it he finds that it is useless as he sees its source as "tainted", his wealth is acquired through Magwich. Greed is a significant factor. In the novel there are many connections comparing rich and poor and we get representatives of both sides. Miss Havisham is rich, but lives a life of disorder, disappointment and filth. In contrast, Joe is relatively poor but is incredibly comfortable and content with his life, however, his wife, Mrs. Joe, desires more. Magwich becomes rich to facilitate people different from himself, that is, to call Pip "a gentleman". Although Joe is poor and comfortable, poverty is not a good thing in itself as Magwich lives in atrocious poverty. Joe Gargery provides and supports his wife and Pip. Joe has given Pip a safe, stable, and reasonably happy home. Pip is seen as Joe's apprentice (while working as a blacksmith and at home), he is treated like a son. Joe is somewhere in between when it comes to wealth. Before Pip's meeting with Miss Havisham he is informed of the state of the situation. his wealth. There is a world of difference between Miss Havisham's house and Joe's. Miss Havisham's house was a dark and secluded place, covered in cobwebs. splendor, for his old father and his 'castle'. Herbert Pocket appears as an incompetent guy; he has vague plans but seems satisfied. Estella's wealth from Miss Havisham and her mercenary attitude immediately lead her down a path of misery and anguish. Pip's journey through life has been reasonably rough. He came from a working class background, was given wealth and became a parasite leading to numerous mistakes, revelations and rejections, and luckily the courage to help Magwich escape. Although Pip's journey began well, it went badly once he achieved rich status; however, he still managed to find courage and wisdom, which shows that there is hope for the future. This proves that happiness is not always achieved by wealth and that being selfish will not benefit you in the long run.