Les Misérables, Book 4: The Gorbeau Hovel, Chapter 5 summary
Book 4: The Gorbeau Hovel, Chapter 5 of 365 · 5 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 5, Jean Valjean briefly suspects a beggar is Javert, then recognizes Javert’s shoulders on a mysterious man inside his house. After the old woman describes a new lodger, he gathers his money and leaves with Cosette at dark, treating the house as unsafe.
What happens
- Jean Valjean thinks he sees Javert’s face on a familiar beggar, but a visit the next evening reassures him.
- Several days afterward, heavy footsteps interrupt his spelling lesson with Cosette, and someone listens outside his darkened room.
- At daybreak, he watches a man pass and recognizes Javert’s neck and shoulders.
- The old woman says a new lodger arrives, but gives only an uncertain name and calls him wealthy.
- Jean Valjean pockets his money, accidentally drops a silver coin, and leaves with Cosette after checking the boulevard.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The description gives Jean Valjean’s fear a recognizable shape. His response shifts from watching and questioning to preparing departure.
Quick check
What does the old woman say about the person who enters the house?
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