The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, Book 8, Chapter 1 summary
Book 8, Chapter 1 of 60 · 14 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 1, Gringoire enters a crowded courtroom and discovers that la Esmeralda and Djali face accusations of murder and witchcraft. La Falourdel’s testimony and the goat’s familiar tricks persuade the court of supernatural guilt, while la Esmeralda’s denial leads the judges to order her torture.
What happens
- After a month without news of la Esmeralda or her goat, Gringoire follows a crowd into a criminal hearing.
- La Falourdel describes the wounded officer, a fleeing black figure, and a payment she claims becomes a dead leaf.
- Hearing Phœbus de Châteaupers named, la Esmeralda rises, and Gringoire recognizes her among the accused.
- Jacques Charmolue makes Djali perform tricks and spell Phœbus, which the spectators treat as evidence of witchcraft.
- La Esmeralda blames an unknown priest, but the president grants Charmolue’s request for torture.
- Guards escort her away while Djali bleats, and the judges complain about the delay before supper.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Charmolue treats her refusal to confess as grounds for physical coercion. The president immediately approves, changing the hearing into an order for torture.
Quick check
What does Djali spell with the movable letters?
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