Judicial Ambition and Societal Constraints

This chapter explores the competitive dynamics among judges in the historical judiciary, focusing on the rivalry between Lord Chief Justice Dunning and Sir Gabriel Ward. It delves into the aspirations of women like Theodora, who faced significant barriers in the male-dominated legal profession, and critiques societal expectations of women through the character of Lady Dunning. The narrative highlights the evolution of the judicial landscape, contrasting historical practices with modern selection processes.