Bleak House Lesson Plan

How does Mr. Jarndyce react when he realizes that Richard is planning his life around the settlement of the case? Why do you think he reacts this way?

Mr. Jarndyce's reaction is passionate and vehement. He strongly discourages Richard, and states that it is far better to borrow, beg, or even die before placing one's hope in the settlement of the suit. He describes the suit as a phantom that has haunted the Jarndyce family for many years. Mr. Jarndyce has seen countless lives destroyed by the Chancery suit. The way he has preserved his life and happiness is by pretending it does not exist. It is worth noticing Mr. Gridley's observation from an earlier chapter—that Mr....