On the point of Pip's departure from his homeland, Great Expectations' hero examines the woman who raised him, the brutal, angry Mrs Joe. A representative of many women trapped in isolating rural situations, fearful of losing their remaining family members to the illnesses that have claimed their loved ones. This woman driven to distraction by the endless hammering of her husband’s hammer on his anvil. Worn down by the battle with the elements that persistently invade her home.
Clean, clean, clean, sister-mother-dog woman.
"Where have you been, Pip? You come along in and be dosed."
