Les Misérables · Chapter
I: An Ancient Salon explained
This chapter describes the salon of Madame de T., a gathering of Royalist aristocrats in 1817 Paris, where M.
What happens
This chapter describes the salon of Madame de T., a gathering of Royalist aristocrats in 1817 Paris, where M. Gillenormand is a dominant figure. The salon is characterized by its reactionary politics, mockery of the Revolution and Bonapartists, and acceptance of disreputable figures like the Comte de Lamothe-Valois. Gillenormand's daughter and his young grandson, whose father is a 'brigand of the Loire,' are also present.
Themes in this chapter
Social Injustice and Poverty
The salon's aristocratic disdain for the lower classes and its mockery of the Revolution highlight the social hierarchies and injustices of the era.
The Human Condition and Fate
The chapter explores how social standing and political allegiance shape individuals' fates, as seen in the pity for Marius due to his father's past.
Characters to notice
- M. Gillenormand
The central figure of the salon, an old bourgeois Royalist known for his wit and oracular pronouncements, accompanied by his daughter and grandson.
- Mademoiselle Gillenormand
Gillenormand's daughter, over forty but appearing fifty, who always accompanies him to the salon.
- Marius Pontmercy
Gillenormand's seven-year-old grandson, described as handsome and rosy, but pitied because his father is a 'brigand of the Loire.'
- Georges Pontmercy
Marius's father, referred to as 'a brigand of the Loire' and 'the disgrace of his family' by Gillenormand.
Key passages
“loss of caloric in the vicinity of those who are cold, there is a diminution of consideration in the approach of despised persons.”
Just as heat is lost near cold objects, so is respect lost when associating with despised people.
A metaphor used to explain why the upper classes avoid contact with the disreputable, though the salon makes exceptions for certain individuals.
“All kings who are not the King of France are provincial kings.”
Any king other than the King of France is merely a provincial ruler.
Gillenormand's witty remark reflecting French Royalist superiority.