Evil in One Place: The Symbolism of the Satis House Zachary Belgum 12th Grade

Evil is prevalent in the world, and is especially evident today with recent mass shootings, sexual harassment, and corrupt governments. Those who partake in ruining others’ lives give up their morality and unfortunately choose to carry out evil. And as a result of these abominable actions, malicious people usually harbor hatred and regret throughout their lives. In Great Expectations, Charles Dickens uses the Satis House as a symbol for hatred, deception, and destruction, ultimately criticizing humans’ innately baneful actions.

The fading appearance of Havisham’s estate, which is also called the Manor House, parallels Miss Havisham’s worsening mental and physical state. Pip describes Miss Havisham’s Satis House as built with “old brick, and dismal… [with] some of the windows… walled up” (53). Clearly, the Satis House perfectly epitomizes a worn down, eerie mansion, which initially foreshadows the eventual decline of the people who reside in the creepy house. In particular, Miss Havisham remains secluded in her house and becomes weaker physically. The Satis House is very old, and “every discernible thing in it was covered with dust and mould” (82). The outside appearance of the Satis House is similar to the “faded and yellow”...