how does great expectations highloght sociological problems in relation to individual ambitions?

In order to begin to answer this question effectively
consider the social issues at work in Great Expectations-- family relationships, social
status, justice, criminality, working class vs. educated middle class,
etc.

Then consider how individual characters are shaped
both by the larger social setting and sociological pressures placed on them, and by
their individual ambitions, passions and choices.

Some
character comparisons that might be useful in exploring the conflicts and relationships
between social problems and personal
ambitions:

• Biddy and Estella-- Biddy is content,
  aware of her status, and has no desire to change it. Estella is discontent, also very
  aware of her status, but not very self aware. She seems powerless in comparison to
  Biddy.

• Magwitch and Mrs.
  Haversham-- both characters have been victims of society, and have chosen proteges
  through which to exact their revenge on the society that wronged them. How are they
  similiar? How are they shaped by society, and by their individual passions? How do they
  succeed/fail

• Pip, Herbert, Wemmick--
  All of these characters are similar in age and intelligence. They all have separate
  ambitions. Pip is more driven by his place or lack of place in society than either
  Wemmick or Herbert. What are the consequences for him, how do the others rely more on
  their individual ambitions? How does socitey thwart them, help them, or serve
  them?

These are just a few comparisons that
might help you to begin thinking about this question.