The True Meaning of Professionalism

~Wemmick, the apparently hard-hearted and sour faced clerk for Mr. Jaggers, can show a good side, one where fantasy and escapism are abundant, when given the opportunity in his own element, his home. Foreign to everyone when they are born is the element of professionalism – really just a concrete set of unwritten laws that govern the associations of people – but is forced upon anyone seeking higher status in society.

~When Pip visits the office of Mr. Jaggers to petition for a little money, he is quite bewildered by the lawyer’s manner, and even more so when he voices his opinion to Wemmick and is told Mr. Jaggers would take it as a compliment. But, as Wemmick says “it’s not personal; it’s professional: purely professional.”

~As Jaggers has his personal professional face, so does Wemmick . While at work, the hard chiseled face of Wemmick doesn’t stand out; at home he can really shine and display his true self. Almost as eager as a little boy with a new toy, Wemmick excitedly parades Pip around the house exhibiting his modest treasures – his patriotism in his flag, his doting care for his aged loving father.

~In reality, professionalism illustrates how well people can conform to the rules and habits of others. Though sometimes beneficial, conformism is a horrid tendency that we as people are inclined to fall into, and will destroy the most vibrant characters. Through the mask that we wear in public our own views are clouded, and can lead to the destruction of our unique personalities.