The works of Charles Dickens—a classic of English literature—mark an entire era in the development of England's national culture. Revered throughout the world, Dickens was always greatly loved and acclaimed in Russia. Fyodor Dostoevsky named him his favorite writer. Leo Tolstoy placed Dickens's novels at the forefront of world literature, believing that they met the fundamental requirements of works of art: significant content, mastery of form, sincerity, and 'the author's moral attitude to the subject.' Great Expectations, one of Dickens's last works and a crown jewel of his oeuvre, tells the story of the life and ruin of young Philip Pirrip, nicknamed Pip in childhood. Pip's dreams of a career, love, and prosperity in the 'gentleman's world' are shattered in an instant when he discovers the terrible secret of his unknown patron, who is being pursued by the police. Money stained with blood and marked with crime, as Pip discovers, cannot bring happiness. But what can? And where will his dreams and high hopes lead him?