Les Misérables · Chapter
Slang Which Weeps and Slang Which Laughs explained
This chapter explores the evolution of slang among the criminal and impoverished classes, contrasting its earlier mournful, self-aware tone with a later, more insolent and jovial character in the 18th century.
What happens
This chapter explores the evolution of slang among the criminal and impoverished classes, contrasting its earlier mournful, self-aware tone with a later, more insolent and jovial character in the 18th century. Hugo reflects on the social and philosophical undercurrents that accompany this shift, linking it to the rise of revolutionary sentiment and the moral transformation wrought by the French Revolution, which he argues has made ancient forms of social upheaval (jacqueries) impossible by instilling a sense of right and duty in the populace.
Themes in this chapter
Revolution and Social Upheaval
Hugo discusses the French Revolution as a moral force that ended jacqueries and transformed the populace, contrasting it with the dangerous undercurrents of criminal slang and sophistry.
Social Injustice and Poverty
The chapter examines the language and songs of the poor and criminal classes, highlighting their suffering, degradation, and the shift from lament to defiant laughter as a sign of impending social crisis.
The Human Condition and Fate
Hugo reflects on the somber, symbolic spirit of slang and the existential plight of the 'pègre,' who sees himself as a hunted creature, evoking themes of powerlessness and the search for meaning.
Key passages
“The first cry of the enlightened and increasing throngs is: death to thieves! Progress is an honest man; the ideal and the absolute do not filch pocket-handkerchiefs.”
The enlightened masses, on days of liberation, demand justice against thieves, showing that progress and moral ideals are inherently honest and do not tolerate petty crime.
Hugo argues that the French Revolution instilled a moral sense in the people, making them guardians of property and virtue.
“Revolution is the vaccine of Jacquerie.”
The French Revolution acts as a preventive measure against peasant uprisings, inoculating society against violent class revolt.
Hugo presents revolution as a controlled, moral transformation that preempts more destructive social earthquakes.
“The scrutiny of hatred is a terrible thing.”
When the oppressed examine society through the lens of hatred, the results are dangerous and destructive.
Hugo warns of the peril when suffering classes adopt distorted ideas from sophists, leading to potential upheaval.
“I do not understand how God, the father of men, can torture his children and his grandchildren and hear them cry, without himself suffering torture.”
A lament from the poor questions how a benevolent God can allow the suffering of His children without being pained Himself.
This illustrates the mournful, self-aware tone of earlier slang, reflecting the deep sadness of the oppressed.