Bleak House

The story is set in England during the 1830s and 1840s and it explores the complex legal system and the pervasive social issues of the time. The novel follows the lives of several characters including Esther Summerson an orphan who is raised by her godmother and does not know her true identity; John Jarndyce a generous and compassionate man who becomes Esthers guardian; and Lady Dedlock a wealthy aristocrat who is hiding a dark secret. The story also includes a wide cast of characters including lawyers detectives and members of the lower classes.