An Italian ambassador reported that the young Princess Claude -- daughter of King Louis XII, and engaged to "the healthy and handsome" François (later King) -- "limped on both legs". It's believed that Claude suffered from a congenital hip disorder caused by or related to the tuberulosis which eventually killed her.

After marriage, Claude bore François seven children between 1515 and 1523, only two or which survived -- one to become King Henri II in 1547.

At the brillian court of King François, Claude stayed in the background, while his sister, Marguerite filled the role of "queen".

I believe that Esther saw herself physically as like Claude, but in spirit as like Marguerite.