Les Misérables, Book 6: Javert, Chapter 1 summary
Book 6: Javert, Chapter 1 of 365 · 5 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 1, M. Madeleine places Fantine in his infirmary and tries to bring Cosette to her, but the Thénardiers demand more money and keep the child. As Fantine’s illness worsens, her hope of reunion sustains her, while the doctor’s warning makes Madeleine’s efforts more urgent.
What happens
- M. Madeleine brings Fantine into his infirmary, learns her history, and comforts her after a feverish night.
- Javert posts a letter to a police official in Paris, which onlookers assume contains his resignation.
- Madeleine sends money for Cosette, but Thénardier inflates the debts and refuses to release her.
- Fantine wins the sisters’ affection and looks forward to seeing Cosette, while her health continues to decline.
- The doctor urges haste, and Madeleine obtains Fantine’s signed permission for someone to collect Cosette.
- The narrator announces a serious incident without describing it.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Madeleine moves from sending payments to arranging direct action. The Thénardiers’ excuses and the doctor’s urgency make waiting increasingly dangerous.
Quick check
How does Thénardier inflate the bill sent to Madeleine?
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