Great Expectations

What is meant by "toads and humbugs"

Chapter 11, Page 79

Asked by
Last updated by Aslan
Answers 1
Add Yours

These people are relatives of the Pocket family, with whom Pip will soon become acquainted. They are distant relatives of Miss Havisham – Camilla, Raymond and Sarah. Matthew Pocket, who is NOT in this group (he is an honorable man, not a toadie) will soon become Pip’s tutor and Herbert Pocket will become Pip’s roommate and friend. At this point in the story, though, these three Pockets are having around Miss Havisham’s house, sucking up to her and being insincere. That is what “toadies” and “humbugs” are – flatterers and insincere people.

Source(s)

http://www.enotes.com/great-expectations/q-and-a/who-toadies-humbugs-chapter-11-great-expectations-186107/