Who Quasimodo is
Quasimodo lives among the towers and bells of Notre-Dame in Paris. He is deaf from ringing the bells, half-blind, and feared by people who judge his appearance.
The cathedral is the only world he knows, and he treats its bells as friends. Behind the face that frightens the crowd, Hugo shows a capacity for gratitude and care.
Quasimodo and the others in the story
Claude Frollo takes Quasimodo in as an abandoned child and raises him in the cathedral's shadow. Quasimodo regards him as his master and savior, communicating with him through signs. His unquestioning loyalty leads him to obey Frollo's order to seize Esmeralda.
How Quasimodo changes
After the attempted kidnapping, Quasimodo suffers public punishment while the crowd mocks him. He begs for water, but even Frollo turns away from him.
Esmeralda, the person he has tried to carry away, steps forward and gives him a drink. Her mercy moves him to tears and changes his attachment to her into selfless devotion. He wants to protect her, without asking her to love him.
Questions
Who is Quasimodo?
Quasimodo is Notre-Dame's deaf bell ringer, raised by the priest Claude Frollo.
Is Quasimodo a villain?
No, though he helps Frollo attempt a kidnapping, he also shows loyalty, gratitude and gentleness. Hugo contrasts his frightening appearance with his capacity for kindness.
Why does Quasimodo care about Esmeralda?
He cares about her because she offers him water when others mock his suffering. Her compassion inspires him to want to keep her safe.