Garrick's Pupil

"Garrick's Pupil" by Augustin Filon is a historical story that follows Esther Woodville, a promising young actress making her way in the lively theater scene of 18th-century London. As Esther's career takes off, she finds herself in artistic circles, including interactions with the famous painter Sir Joshua Reynolds. Introduced to the reader during a vibrant spring scene, Esther is accompanied by her aunt, who is very protective, to Reynolds' studio. While preparing to sit for a portrait as Rosalind, she speaks with Reynolds about her hopes for more independence from her aunt's control and the limits of what society expects from rising stars like herself. As the painting progresses, the conversation with Reynolds reveals her longing for freedom from her aunt's strict guardianship and the constraints of society. The story explores Esther's desire to break free from these constraints and find her own path amid swirling ambitions, budding romances, and the intricate dilemmas of love in a world that is both exciting and challenging.