Orlick’s Resentment

Dolge Orlick’s accumulated grievances move from workplace hostility to violence against Mrs. Joe Gargery and a final attempt to murder Pip.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Hostile Apprentice

A Hostile Apprentice A quiet antagonism Dolge Orlick resents Pip’s place in Joe’s forge and treats him with covert hostility. His violence is initially confined to sparks, threats, and insinuations. Anger encouraged When Mrs. Joe Gargery quarrels with Orlick, he answers with open menace. Joe defeats him in a fight, but the conflict does not disappear with the immediate danger.

The Attack on Mrs. Joe

The Attack on Mrs. Joe A hidden assault Mrs. Joe Gargery is struck down while Joe is away. A filed leg-iron is found beside her, suggesting a connection to the escaped convicts. Suspicion without proof Pip suspects either Orlick or an unknown associate of Magwitch but cannot prove either theory. Mrs. Joe survives with lasting injuries and can no longer explain what happened.

The Hammer on the Slate

The Hammer on the Slate A recovered signal Mrs. Joe repeatedly draws a hammer-like sign on her slate. Biddy recognizes that she is indicating Orlick, whose name she cannot express. A troubling welcome Instead of denouncing him, Mrs. Joe seems eager to conciliate Orlick. The household cannot determine whether fear, confusion, or some other motive governs her response.

A Watchful Enemy

A Watchful Enemy Resentment persists Orlick leaves Joe’s forge and becomes a porter at Satis House. Pip encounters him there and recognizes that the man still resents his rise and influence over Biddy. Threats become concrete Orlick later admits to watching Pip and searching for an opportunity to kill him. His old grievances have developed into a deliberate plan.

The Limekiln Trap

The Limekiln Trap A false invitation Orlick lures Pip to a deserted sluice-house with a letter promising information about Provis. He binds Pip to a ladder and announces that he intends to kill him. A rescue in time Orlick confesses to attacking Mrs. Joe and reveals that associates of Compeyson are pursuing Magwitch. Herbert, Startop, and Trabb’s boy arrive after hearing Pip’s cries, and Orlick escapes.

during Pip’s apprenticeship

a foggy night during Pip’s apprenticeship

during Mrs. Joe Gargery’s recovery

after Pip becomes a London gentleman

the Monday night before Magwitch’s planned escape