Les Misérables, Chapter 1 summary
Chapter 1 of 365 · Book 1: A Just Man · 5 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 1, M. Charles-François-Bienvenu Myriel is introduced as Bishop of D——, with an uncertain personal history and an appointment that follows a brief exchange with Napoleon. The account separates rumor from known facts, introduces his household, and leaves the town waiting to see how he acts as bishop.
What happens
- The narrator introduces Myriel as an elderly bishop and recounts uncertain stories about his marriage and fashionable youth.
- Myriel leaves France during the Revolution, loses his wife in Italy, and returns as a priest for reasons nobody knows.
- While seeking help for his parish in Paris, Myriel answers Napoleon boldly and receives an unexpected appointment as bishop.
- After nine years in D——, the rumors about his past no longer occupy the town.
- The account introduces his sister Baptistine and housekeeper Magloire, then describes his formal installation and the town’s expectant attention.
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Quick check
What is known about Myriel when he returns from Italy?
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