Les Misérables, Book 8: A Counterblow, Chapter 5 summary

What happens

1. Javert imprisons Jean Valjean, and most townspeople reject their former mayor after learning that he is a convict.
2. Jean Valjean escapes and returns to his rooms, where the loyal doorkeeper fetches Sister Simplice.
3. He displays evidence of his theft, packs the silver candlesticks, and leaves instructions for his remaining property.
4. When Javert searches the house, Sister Simplice twice lies to protect Jean Valjean, and Javert withdraws.
5. Jean Valjean leaves toward Paris carrying a bundle and wearing a smock.
6. The curé preserves money for the poor by giving Fantine a minimal funeral and burial in a communal grave.

In this chapter

What to notice

The narrator presents Sister Simplice’s lies as a moral sacrifice rather than selfish deceit. Her trusted reputation makes Jean Valjean’s escape possible.

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