Jaggerss sinister hand-washings to provide a constant association of education, repression, criminality, [and] the fear of deviance (130). Mrs. Joes inability to communicate orally and Jaggers constantly feeling the need to cleanse himself suggests that these people arent happy with themselves. Dickens may be acknowledging the fact that society also failed Mrs. Joe and Jaggers when it comes to being educated about self worth. However, Pip has recognized the things that he doesnt like about himself, and though his actions may be misdirected, he tries to change himself. Mrs. Joe and Jaggers simply let their past dictate the present and the future. They didnt try to change themselves, and they didnt try to learn self worth.Pip acknowledges his past and takes ownership for his future before he ever reaches adulthood. Dickens illustrates how important education is, using Pips quest to become a gentleman as his vehicle of communication. Pip is attempting to improve his life when he makes a commitment to education. He wants to stay focused in Mrs. Wopsles aunts schoolroom because, like Dickens, Pip knows that education is the key to his success. Pip also demonstrates his dedication to education when he commits to teaching Joe how to read. Dickens uses the obvious association that writing is a task completed through the use of ones hands. He also refocuses on hands when he has Pip write a letter to Joe, [Pip] delivered this written communication (slate and all) with [his] own hand (G.E. 41). Joe has come to terms with the abusive childhood he endured and made a conscious choice to change himself. In this way he serves as positive example for Pip. However, he doesnt have the same feelings of urgency about learning that Pip feels. Joe has made a conscious choice to use his hands for blacksmithing and comforting Pip. Joes hands serve to fortify, not to destabilize, the edifice of [Pips] virility (Cohen 41). Hes proud of Pips letter...
