Avenging Coals

In Chapter 2 of Great Expectations, the expression "avenging coals" refers to burning coals that seems to accuse or punish someone.  The thought to steal food from sister's house to feed the escaped convict  pricks Pip's conscience.  The glowing coals in the fireplace appears to him ready to take avenge for his guilt. Here the coals seem to accuse him. 

This is an example of personification: Dickens gives the lifeless coals the human quality of seeking vengeance.  Dickens often uses the physical surroundings to mirror a character's emotions. 

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