Les Misérables, Book 2: The Fall, Chapter 3 summary
Book 2: The Fall, Chapter 3 of 365 · 8 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 3, Jean Valjean enters the Bishop’s home and declares his prison record, expecting another rejection, but receives supper and a bed without payment. The Bishop treats him as a brother rather than a dangerous stranger, and Valjean responds with astonishment and joy to this unexpected respect.
What happens
- Jean Valjean enters, frightening the women, and describes his release from prison and repeated failures to find shelter.
- The Bishop orders another place at supper and clean bedding, even after Valjean reads his passport’s warning.
- Valjean learns his host is a priest and expresses amazement at receiving respectful treatment without payment.
- The Bishop welcomes him as a brother and urges goodwill rather than hatred after suffering.
- Madame Magloire serves supper, and the Bishop requests the household’s full display of silver cutlery.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The Bishop replaces the public label of convict with a bond of equality. This explains the respect that so astonishes Valjean.
Quick check
What does the Bishop do after Valjean reads the warning on his passport?
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