Les Misérables, Book 8: The Wicked Poor Man, Chapter 12 summary
Book 8: The Wicked Poor Man, Chapter 12 of 365 · 7 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 12, Jondrette recognizes the charitable visitor and the young lady, then tells his wife about a plot to force the man to submit to his demands. Marius secretly overhears the threats as Jondrette assigns his daughters watch duty and reserves the visitor’s gift for charcoal and an unnamed purchase.
What happens
- Jondrette claims to recognize the visitor, sends his daughters outside, and orders them to return at five.
- He whispers the young lady’s identity to his wife, whose surprise turns into violent resentment.
- Believing Marius absent, Jondrette describes a trap for the visitor’s return at six and threatens violence if he resists.
- Jondrette leaves to meet more people, pleased that his beard prevents the visitor from recognizing him.
- He returns briefly to order charcoal and reserve money for an unnamed purchase from an ironmonger.
- Marius hears Jondrette leave as Saint-Médard strikes one.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Jondrette puts his scheme ahead of the family’s immediate hunger. The charitable gift now pays for preparations whose full purpose remains concealed.
Quick check
Why does Jondrette refuse to let his wife spend the remaining money on dinner?
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