# In What Mirror M. Madeleine Contemplates His Hair explained — Les Misérables

> Chapter companion for Les Misérables by Victor Hugo.

## What happens

At dawn, Sister Simplice discovers that M. Madeleine's hair has turned white overnight. He visits the sleeping Fantine, who wakes and asks about Cosette, believing he has gone to fetch her.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Sacrifice

Valjean's hair turns white overnight, symbolizing the immense moral and emotional burden he carries for Fantine and Cosette.

### Mercy and Forgiveness

Valjean's quiet compassion and careful handling of Fantine's delusion reflect his commitment to mercy.

## Character check-ins

### Jean Valjean

Enters the infirmary with white hair, having undergone a profound internal change.

### Fantine

Sleeps peacefully after a feverish night, then wakes and asks for Cosette.

### Sister Simplice

Watches over Fantine, notices the mayor's white hair, and expresses concern about the truth.

## Key lines

> Your hair is perfectly white!

Sister Simplice exclaims in shock at the mayor's suddenly white hair.

_Highlights the physical manifestation of Valjean's inner turmoil._

> And Cosette?

Fantine's first word upon waking is to ask about her daughter.

_Shows Fantine's single-minded love and hope for Cosette._

## Links

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