Les Misérables, Book 7: The Champmathieu Affair, Chapter 6 summary
Book 7: The Champmathieu Affair, Chapter 6 of 365 · 10 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 6, Fantine grows distressed when M. Madeleine misses his usual visit, but rejoices when she learns he has gone away and assumes he is fetching Cosette. Sister Simplice refuses to lie yet leaves this belief uncorrected, and the doctor finds that Fantine’s sudden happiness improves her condition.
What happens
- Fantine’s fever and cough worsen, and she anxiously waits for M. Madeleine’s usual afternoon visit.
- When he does not arrive, she grows silent and sings a lullaby she once sang to Cosette.
- A maid reports his departure; Sister Simplice rejects a suggested lie and tells Fantine that he has gone away.
- Fantine assumes he is fetching Cosette from Montfermeil, prays, and joyfully imagines their reunion.
- The nun and doctor leave her assumption uncorrected, and the doctor finds stronger signs of life.

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In this chapter
What to notice
The doctor connects Fantine’s improvement with her happiness. His cautious hope does not erase his recognition that her disease remains advanced.
Quick check
What does Sister Simplice tell Fantine about the mayor?

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