We learn that Pip is uneducated and can’t read or write. His family died when he was young, and has to live with his older sister, Mrs Joe Gargery and her husband Joe, who is a blacksmith. Pip loves Joe, but we find that Mrs Joe (Mrs Gargery) is always bullying them. Mr Pumblechook and his friend Mr Wopsle like to downgrade Pip. (Chapter 1)

One evening, Pip goes to visit his parents graves when he meets an escaped convict which persuades Pip, (by threatening him with a young man that he knows who will taunt Pip physically) to get him some food and a file. (Chapter 1)

Out of the frightening thought of the young man hurting Pip, he wakes up late at night and goes to meet the convict at the same place where they met. Pip gives the convict his food, and goes back home. (Chapter 2/3)

The next day, as Pip is having dinner with his family and friends, (Mr Wopsle, Mr Pumblechook etc) the soldiers find the escaped convict that Pip met. The convict does not sell out Pip, and decides to take the blame for stealing the file and food. (4-6)