In the novel "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens, guilt is a common feeling that is displayed by the characters throughout the novel. Guilt proves to have both positive and negative consequences surrounding the main characters. The constant suffering of the characters throughout the novel are in many cases inflicted by these consequences.
             Pip's character illustrates feelings of guilt on numerous occasions over the course of the novel. "The guilty knowledge that I was going to rob Mrs. Joe-I never thought I was going to rob Joe, for I never thought of any of the house-keeping property as his,"(pg.11). Pip is left with no option but to steal from his guardians (Mrs. Joe and Joe), as a result of the threat he received from Magwich. This is an early display of guilt demonstrated by Pip. Another incidence of guilt that Pip shows is when he discovers that Magwich is an escaped convict. He realized this when he heard over the radio that there were two escaped convicts on the loose. After giving the requested food and file to the convict, Pip immediately had feelings of guilt and as a result was expecting for the police to be awaiting him at his house when he got home. There are positive consequences that follow these examples of guilt. However, they are not revealed until the later stages of Pip's life. The positive consequence is evident when Pip discovers that Magwich has been his financial supporter throughout the majority of his life.
             Pip's feelings of guilt are shown after the fight with the young pale gentlemen and the attack of Mrs. Joe. After beating up the boy at Ms. Havisham's, Pip said he "felt but gloomy satisfaction in my victory. Indeed, I go so far as to hope that I regarded myself while dressing, as a species of savage young wolf, or other wild beasts." Pip is not happy with his behavior. Though Pip feels guilt here, some feelings of pride come over Pip. The attack upon Mrs. Joe also brings guilt to Pip. Th
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