Les Misérables · Chapters

Chapters explained

Chapter companions for Les Misérables by Victor Hugo.

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Chapter 1
Les Misérables
The novel opens with the introduction of Monseigneur Bienvenu, the Bishop of Digne, a man of profound compassion and charity. His kindness is tested when Jean Valjean, an ex-convict hardened by years of imprisonment, arrives in the town and is welcomed by the bishop. Valjean repays this hospitality by stealing the bishop's silver, but when he is caught, the bishop not only forgives him but also gives him the silver candlesticks, setting Valjean on a path toward redemption.
Chapter 2
Volume I: Fantine
This volume introduces the character of Fantine, a young woman who falls in love, is abandoned by her lover Tholomyès, and is left to raise her daughter Cosette alone. It details her descent into poverty and desperation as she struggles to provide for her child, ultimately leading to her tragic downfall.
Chapter 3
Book I: A Just Man
This chapter introduces Monseigneur Bienvenu, the Bishop of Digne, a man of profound compassion and humility. It details his simple lifestyle, his charitable works, and his unwavering commitment to mercy and justice, setting the stage for his pivotal encounter with Jean Valjean.
Chapter 4
I: M. Myriel
This chapter introduces M. Charles-François-Bienvenu Myriel, the Bishop of Digne, an old man of about seventy-five who has held the see since 1806. It recounts the rumors and stories about his past—his noble birth, his early life devoted to gallantry, his emigration to Italy during the Revolution, the death of his wife, and his subsequent return as a priest. It describes his appointment as bishop after a notable encounter with Napoleon, and his arrival in Digne with his sister Mademoiselle Baptistine and their servant Madame Magloire. The chapter establishes his character and the quiet, respected life he leads in the diocese.
Chapter 5
M. Myriel Becomes M. Welcome
This chapter introduces M. Myriel, the Bishop of Digne, who is known for his extreme charity and humility. Upon his arrival, he exchanges his grand episcopal palace for the town's cramped hospital, donating his salary to various charitable causes. The poor people affectionately rename him 'Monseigneur Bienvenu' (Welcome), a name he embraces.

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Les Misérables

Volume I: Fantine

Book I: A Just Man

I: M. Myriel

M. Myriel Becomes M. Welcome