Les Misérables · Chapter
Jean Valjean Still Wears His Arm in a Sling explained
Cosette and Marius are married in a joyful ceremony.
What happens
Cosette and Marius are married in a joyful ceremony. Jean Valjean, his arm still in a sling, follows as M. Gillenormand escorts Cosette. After the wedding, a grand feast is held, but Valjean quietly leaves before dinner, claiming his injured hand pains him. His empty chair is filled by Marius, and the celebration continues with laughter and a speech from Gillenormand.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Compassion
The chapter celebrates the love between Cosette and Marius, culminating in their wedding and the joy it brings to those around them.
Suffering and Sacrifice
Valjean's quiet departure and his arm in a sling hint at his ongoing sacrifice and pain, contrasting with the general happiness.
Characters to notice
- Cosette
The bride, dressed in white, radiant and joyful, now Madame Pontmercy.
- Marius Pontmercy
The groom, scarred from the barricade, deeply in love with Cosette.
- Jean Valjean
Attends the wedding with his arm in a sling, smiles but leaves before dinner, claiming pain.
- M. Gillenormand
The grandfather, escorts Cosette, gives a joyful speech at the feast, and takes Valjean's place at the table.
- Théodule
A captain, cousin of Marius, attends the wedding but is not recognized by Cosette.
Key passages
“Cosette, both at the mayor's office and at church, was dazzling and touching.”
Cosette was stunning and moved everyone at both the civil and religious ceremonies.
Describes Cosette's beauty and emotional impact during the wedding.
“The long agony of their love was terminating in an ascension.”
Their prolonged suffering in love was ending in a glorious rise.
Reflects on how past hardships enhance the joy of the wedding.
“That empty armchair chilled the effusion of the wedding feast for a moment.”
The vacant chair briefly dampened the festive mood.
Highlights the moment when Valjean's absence is noticed.