A charactonym in literature is the name given to a fictional character. This charactonym is symbolic or reflective of the role or personality of that particular character in the story. Sometimes, it also resembles the significance of that particular character in the story. Estella Havisham in “Great Expectations” by Charles Dickens is richly symbolic. It reflects the key aspects of that character.

Estella: The name “Estella” is derived from  “stella,” in Latin. Its  meaning is “star.” This is symbolic and best fitted as the character of Estella is portrayed as a star which is a distant, cold, and unattainable figure. She resembles Pip’s intense desire. Like a star, she illuminates his path towards the upper class but remains out of his reach. Her character possesses a perfect combination of brilliance and beauty, but just like a star in the night sky Estella’s beauty is remote and cold. Like a star she plays the role of a guiding light for Pip. But that guidance leads him down to a path of longing and dissatisfaction.

Havisham: Estella is generally referred to by her first name. But her association with Miss Havisham, her adoptive mother, is crucial. So, her surname gives a clear understanding of her role in the novel. If the name “Havisham” is broken down, it gives two words “have” and “sham,”. It reflects Miss Havisham’s life, which is marked by a sham or deception. As Estella is the creation of Miss Havisham, her upbringing embodies the artificiality and emotional manipulation imposed on her by Miss Havisham. Estella is a tool of vengeance for Miss Havisham. Throughout the story she has used her against men that turns her into a “sham” of true love and affection. Therefore, Estella’s surname reflects her character to the mask of deceit and the emptiness that hides behind her outward beauty and charm.

So, together, the names “Estella” and “Havisham” reflect her role as a beautiful but cold figure, at the same time she is both alluring and destructive. Her name also represents the hollow promises of social mobility. It also connects with the falsity of class and happiness.