Les Misérables, Book 1: The War Between Four Walls, Chapter 7 summary
Book 1: The War Between Four Walls, Chapter 7 of 365 · 6 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 7, Enjolras closes the remaining escape route to prevent a rear attack, leaving the strengthened barricade completely enclosed as the defenders prepare for battle. A cannon survives their first volley and fires, but its ball causes little damage, while Gavroche climbs back into the barricade.
What happens
- At dawn, the streets lie deserted, the sentries return, and the insurgents strengthen their barricade.
- Following a sentry’s advice, Enjolras blocks the remaining passage to guard against attack from behind, trapping the defenders inside.
- The men receive brandy, take their positions, and cock their guns as Enjolras prepares to fight.
- Artillerymen bring up a cannon, survive the defenders’ volley unharmed, and earn applause for their composure.
- Combeferre discusses cannon construction and limitations while Enjolras orders the men to reload.
- Gavroche enters as the cannon fires; the ball damages a wheel and cart, and the defenders laugh.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Courfeyrac’s joke captures the danger of Enjolras’s decision: stronger defenses also make the barricade a trap.
Quick check
What damage does the first cannonball cause?
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