Les Misérables, Book 5: The Descent, Chapter 4 summary
Book 5: The Descent, Chapter 4 of 365 · 4 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 4, M. Madeleine wears mourning after the announcement of M. Myriel’s death, leading local society to assume a family connection and treat him with greater respect. He denies being a cousin and says he served in the bishop’s household when young, while his gifts to young Savoyards attract more boys.
What happens
- Newspapers announce the death of M. Myriel, and the narrator describes the comfort his sister gives him during his blindness.
- After the local newspaper repeats the news, M. Madeleine appears in black with crape on his hat.
- Local society assumes Madeleine is related to the bishop and shows him greater respect.
- Asked whether he is the bishop’s cousin, Madeleine denies it and says he served in the bishop’s household when young.
- Madeleine asks young Savoyard chimney sweeps their names and gives them money, prompting more boys to pass through.
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What to notice
Madeleine explains his mourning through service rather than kinship. His answer contradicts the assumption that improves his standing among local nobles.
Quick check
What connection does Madeleine claim with the bishop?
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