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The text Great Expectations by Charles Dickens reflects many of the values and attitudes of nineteenth century England. The terms 'values' and 'attitude' are somewhat linked, and are both an integral part of the context of this novel. There was a great divide between the classes at the time of Great Expectations, with each class having its own stereotypical views. This difference led to crime in the city, which served the need for better punishment, …

…smells of the rotting meat in the markets that are described by Pip reflect the attitudes held towards the city by many of the people of the time, "this was horrible, and gave me a sickening idea of London". Dickens has reflected many of the values and attitudes of the time in Great Expectations, with various stylistic techniques such as irony and characterisation assisting in emphasising their importance both in the story, and in society.