The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, Book 6, Chapter 3 summary
Book 6, Chapter 3 of 60 · 30 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 3, Mahiette tells how Paquette la Chantefleurie loses her daughter Agnès, then recognizes her in the recluse called Sister Gudule when she sees a surviving baby shoe. The visit exposes the mother's continuing grief and her hatred of the woman she identifies as an Egyptian child stealer.
What happens
- Mahiette, Oudarde Musnier, and Gervaise approach the Grève with Eustache and a cake intended for the recluse.
- Fear of a gypsy performer prompts Mahiette to recount Paquette la Chantefleurie's devotion to her baby daughter Agnès.
- Mahiette describes Agnès's disappearance, a disabled child's appearance in her place, and Paquette's disappearance after a desperate search.
- At the Rat-Hole, Mahiette recognizes Paquette through her appearance and the tiny shoe she watches.
- Eustache's voice rouses the recluse, who rejects the women's comforts and demands that they remove the child.
- Hearing her former name, the recluse leaps toward the window and curses an Egyptian woman she sees near the pillory.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Eustache's voice breaks her stillness, but brings anguish rather than comfort. Her response shows how completely her own child's absence governs her feelings.
Quick check
What object confirms Mahiette's recognition of the recluse?
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