Les Misérables · Chapter
Book XII: Corinthe explained
This chapter introduces the Corinthe tavern, a gathering place for the revolutionary-minded youth of Paris, including Enjolras and his associates.
What happens
This chapter introduces the Corinthe tavern, a gathering place for the revolutionary-minded youth of Paris, including Enjolras and his associates. It sets the stage for the impending uprising, highlighting the political fervor and the personal connections among the characters.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
Marius’s psychological peak occurs as he is overwhelmed by a “whirlwind” of confusion, realizing that his pers…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Revolution and Social Upheaval
The gathering at Corinthe embodies the revolutionary spirit and the desire for social change.
Characters to notice
- Enjolras
Leader of the revolutionary group, present at Corinthe.
- Grantaire
A skeptical but loyal member of the group, often found at Corinthe.
- Courfeyrac
A member of the revolutionary group, present at the tavern.
- Combeferre
A thoughtful revolutionary, part of the gathering at Corinthe.
- Feuilly
A working-class revolutionary, present at the tavern.
Key passages
“The Corinthe was a tavern in the Rue de la Verrerie, at the corner of the Rue de la Chanvrerie.”
The Corinthe tavern was located at the intersection of Rue de la Verrerie and Rue de la Chanvrerie.
Describes the setting of the revolutionary gatherings.
