Bleak House Lesson Plan

How does Esther finally discover the secret of her parentage? How does she react to this new knowledge?

Esther goes to recuperate from her illness at Mr. Boythorn's, which is conveniently right next to the Dedlocks' home. Lady Dedlock is desperate to talk to Esther, but she can't arouse suspicion by actually calling on her, so she waits to run into Esther outside on a walk. Once this happens, Lady Dedlock immediately tells Esther everything. She also gives her a letter to read that explains all the finer details of the situation. Esther reacts to this new knowledge with her characteristic loyalty, discipline, and humility. She doesn't think of herself (or when she does,...