Great Expectations

What was Pip’s reaction to the news that he is to be apprenticed by Joe to become a blacksmith? Was Pip happy about it? If not, why?

from ''great expectations''

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When Joe accompanies Pip to the Satis House in Chapter 13, Miss Havisham gives Joe twenty five guineas for Pip's service to her and thus buys Pip's indenture as a blacksmith. Pip is shocked and speechless.

Returning to Mr. Pumblechook's house, where Mrs. Joe is also anxiously waiting, Joe produces the twenty five pounds much to everyone's -- except Pip's -- joy. Caught up in the excitement, Mr. Pumblechook insists that Pip be legally bound by law and drags Pip and the entourage down to the Town Hall to be bound. Mrs. Joe then brings everyone out for dinner.

At the meal, all but Pip seem to be enjoying themselves: "...I was truly wretched, and had a strong conviction on me that I should never like Joe's trade. I had liked it once, but once was not now."

Source(s)

http://www.gradesaver.com/great-expectations/study-guide/summary-part-i-chapters-11-19-11-19