Bleak House MCQs & Summary

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman | Last updated: June 2, 2025

Summary:

Bleak House by Charles Dickens is a complex novel that critiques the inefficiencies and corruption of the British legal system, particularly the Court of Chancery. The story revolves around the long-running case of Jarndyce and Jarndyce, which consumes the lives of those involved.

The novel follows Esther Summerson, an orphan raised by the kind John Jarndyce, as she uncovers secrets about her origins. She becomes a companion to Ada Clare, one of the heirs to the disputed inheritance, and develops a romantic connection with Allan Woodcourt, a kindhearted doctor.

Another major storyline follows Lady Dedlock, who hides a tragic secret about her illegitimate daughter, Esther. The cunning lawyer Mr. Tulkinghorn discovers this and uses the information to control her, leading to dramatic consequences. The novel also portrays the harsh realities of poverty through characters like Jo, a street boy, and Mr. Krook, a sinister landlord.

Ultimately, the court case ends in failure, with legal costs consuming the entire inheritance. Dickens exposes the cold bureaucracy of the legal system, the struggles of the poor, and the importance of morality and kindness.