Mr. Jarndyce

Richard Carstone

John Jarndyce is Richard's guardian and cousin, trying to guide him away from the destructive obsession with the Jarndyce and Jarndyce lawsuit.

Esther Summerson

John Jarndyce is Esther's guardian and later her fiancé, though their relationship is more paternal than romantic.

Sir Leicester Dedlock

They are distant relatives and acquaintances, connected through the Jarndyce lawsuit and the aristocracy.

Richard Carstone

John Jarndyce is Richard's guardian and cousin, trying to guide him away from the destructive obsession with the Jarndyce and Jarndyce lawsuit.

Sir Leicester Dedlock

They are distant relatives and acquaintances, connected through the Jarndyce lawsuit and the aristocracy.

Esther Summerson

John Jarndyce is Esther's guardian and later her fiancé, though their relationship is more paternal than romantic.

Richard Carstone

John Jarndyce is Richard's guardian and cousin, trying to guide him away from the destructive obsession with the Jarndyce and Jarndyce lawsuit.

Esther Summerson

John Jarndyce is Esther's guardian and later her fiancé, though their relationship is more paternal than romantic.

Sir Leicester Dedlock

They are distant relatives and acquaintances, connected through the Jarndyce lawsuit and the aristocracy.

Bleak House

The guardian who brings the wards to Bleak House.

A Progress

Referred to as the benefactor who arranged for Esther's education; appears as the gruff gentleman in the coach who asks Esther why she is crying.

Quite at Home

Hosts the gathering; initially upset to learn that Richard and Esther gave money to Skimpole, but quickly forgives the matter by characterizing Skimpole as an absolute child; shows his characteristic gentleness and generosity.

Covering a Multitude of Sins

Discusses Richard's career with Esther, coins the term 'wiglomeration' for legal entanglements, and affectionately bestows nicknames on Esther.

Signs and Tokens

Receives a letter from Boythorn and shares the story of Boythorn's lost love with Esther.

XIII: Esther’s Narrative

Guides Richard's career discussions; shows concern for Esther's well-being.

Bell Yard

Tolerates the philanthropists out of kindness but confides their hollowness to Esther; visits Gridley and the Coavinses children.

XVII: Esther's Narrative

Reveals to Esther the little he knows of her history, including the letter from her aunt and the arrangements made for her.

Lady Dedlock

Mr. Jarndyce arranges Richard's lodging and accompanies Esther and Ada to Lincolnshire. He speaks with Lady Dedlock about past acquaintances and local disputes.

Esther's Narrative

Arranges for Charley to be Esther's maid as a gift of love.

An Appeal Case

Supports Richard's efforts but expresses concern about his choices; maintains reserve about legal matters.

Esther's Narrative

Invites Mrs. Woodcourt and later helps make the wedding breakfast agreeable despite difficult guests.

Nurse and Patient

Mr. Jarndyce arranges for Jo's shelter and writes a letter on his behalf, showing his compassion.

XXXV: Esther’s Narrative

Guardian; comforts Esther, discusses Richard's dangerous involvement with Chancery, and arranges for her convalescence.

Chesney Wold

Mentioned in a letter to Esther, expressing his and others' longing for her return to Bleak House.

XLIII: Esther's Narrative

Mr. Jarndyce listens to Esther's confession and comforts her, showing deep concern and tenderness.

XLIV: The Letter and the Answer

Writes a letter proposing marriage to Esther, asks for her trust, and patiently waits for her answer.

XLV: In Trust

Mr. Jarndyce is deeply concerned about Richard's situation and reluctantly allows Esther to go to Deal.

L: Esther’s Narrative

Guardian; suggests moving to London for Ada's birthday and to consult Mr. Woodcourt about Caddy.

Enlightened

Receives news of the marriage with sorrow and forgiveness; reflects on the thinning of Bleak House.

LII: Obstinacy

Expresses disbelief that Mr. George could be guilty and resolves to stand by him, visiting the prison with Esther and Woodcourt.

LVI: Pursuit

Assists Mr. Bucket by arranging for Esther to accompany the detective on the pursuit.

Chapter LVII: Esther's Narrative

Esther's guardian; wakes her and explains the situation, then sends her with Mr. Bucket.

Perspective

Guardian of Esther; discusses Woodcourt's potential appointment and the future of Bleak House.

Another Discovery

Receives the burnt will from Mr. Bucket, refuses to examine it, and delivers it to Mr. Kenge; proposes to Esther that she become mistress of Bleak House next month.

LXIV: Esther’s Narrative

Reveals his plan for Esther to marry Allan Woodcourt, gives them Bleak House, and rejects Mr. Guppy's proposal on Esther's behalf.

LXV: Beginning the World

Comforts Richard in his final moments and plans for his recovery at Bleak House.

The Close of Esther’s Narrative

Remains guardian to Ada and her son, is a devoted father figure, and is deeply loved by Esther and her family.