Les Misérables, Book 5: Grandson and Grandfather, Chapter 2 summary
Book 5: Grandson and Grandfather, Chapter 2 of 365 · 7 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 2, Marius survives months of dangerous illness while M. Gillenormand cares for him with overwhelming tenderness, but recovery revives his distrust of his grandfather. Determined to find Cosette, Marius expects opposition and prepares to reopen his wounds and starve himself if his grandfather refuses him.
What happens
- Marius suffers fever, delirium, and dangerous wounds while his grandfather watches anxiously and an unnamed gentleman supplies lint.
- On September 7, the doctor assures Marius’s recovery, though his broken collarbone requires two further months of rest.
- His prolonged illness and public opposition to reporting wounded patients protect Marius from prosecution.
- M. Gillenormand celebrates each improvement with extravagant affection, but Marius remains silent and absorbed in thoughts of Cosette.
- Memories of Colonel Pontmercy deepen Marius’s distrust, and he mistakes his grandfather’s silence during a political disagreement for anger.
- Expecting resistance over Cosette, Marius prepares to injure himself and refuse food; the moment he awaits arrives.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Marius turns his physical vulnerability into a planned means of pressure. His recovery does not resolve the family conflict he expects over Cosette.
Quick check
Why does Marius interpret his grandfather’s silence as threatening?
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