Les Misérables · Chapter
Book X: The 5th of June, 1832 explained
The chapter depicts the outbreak of the Parisian uprising on June 5, 1832, following the funeral of General Lamarque.
What happens
The chapter depicts the outbreak of the Parisian uprising on June 5, 1832, following the funeral of General Lamarque. The city becomes a stage for revolutionary fervor, with barricades being erected and the forces of order mobilizing. The narrative focuses on the gathering of insurgents, the construction of barricades, and the initial confrontations, setting the scene for the larger conflict.
Themes in this chapter
Revolution and Social Upheaval
The chapter vividly portrays the eruption of revolutionary energy, the building of barricades, and the clash between the insurgents and the authorities.
The Human Condition and Fate
The uprising highlights the desperation and hope of the oppressed, as individuals are swept into the tide of history and face uncertain destinies.
Characters to notice
- Enjolras
Leads the insurrection, directing the construction of barricades and rallying the revolutionaries.
- Gavroche
Active in the streets, participating in the uprising and assisting with barricade building.
- Marius Pontmercy
Drawn into the conflict, joining the insurgents at the barricades.
- Javert
Present as a police inspector, observing and later infiltrating the barricades.
- Thénardier
Lurking in the shadows of the uprising, taking advantage of the chaos.
Key passages
“The 5th of June, 1832”
The date marks the beginning of the Parisian uprising, a pivotal moment in the story.
Sets the temporal context for the revolutionary events.