Les Misérables, Book 8: A Counterblow, Chapter 1 summary
Book 8: A Counterblow, Chapter 1 of 365 · 4 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 1, M. Madeleine returns to the infirmary, where Sister Simplice discovers that his hair is completely white and explains Fantine’s hope of seeing her child. He insists on visiting Fantine despite the risk of disappointing her, and she wakes to ask about Cosette.
What happens
- At dawn, Sister Simplice prepares medicine while Fantine sleeps, and M. Madeleine enters the laboratory.
- The sister explains that Fantine improves because she believes Madeleine is bringing back her child from Montfermeil.
- Sister Simplice notices Madeleine’s white hair and gives him a small medical mirror; he responds with indifference.
- Madeleine says fetching the child takes at least two or three days, but rejects the sister’s suggestion that he remain unseen.
- He watches Fantine sleep and prays beside her bed until she wakes and asks about Cosette.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Madeleine refuses a plan that protects Fantine from disappointment. His unexplained urgency gives his visit a sense of pressure.
Quick check
Why does Sister Simplice suggest keeping Madeleine’s return from Fantine?
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