Les Misérables · Chapter
Sums Deposited with Laffitte explained
This chapter describes the daily life and character of M.
What happens
This chapter describes the daily life and character of M. Madeleine (Jean Valjean) as mayor of Montreuil-sur-Mer. He lives simply, avoids social attention, and spends his time reading, walking in the fields, and helping others anonymously. He teaches peasants practical agricultural knowledge, performs good deeds in secret, and is known for his strength and gentleness. His chamber is plain except for two silver candlesticks, and it is rumored he has large sums deposited with Laffitte, though the actual amount is about 630,000 francs.
Themes in this chapter
Redemption and Transformation
Jean Valjean's transformation from convict to benevolent mayor is evident in his cultivated speech, charitable acts, and philosophical reflections on plants and men.
Love and Compassion
His anonymous good deeds, assistance to the poor, and gentle demeanor toward children and mourners exemplify deep compassion.
Characters to notice
- Jean Valjean
Living as Mayor Madeleine, he is simple, solitary, and charitable, known for his strength, knowledge of farming, and secret good deeds. He keeps two silver candlesticks in his modest room.
Key passages
“He performed a multitude of good actions, concealing his agency in them as a man conceals himself because of evil actions.”
He did many good deeds secretly, hiding his involvement as if he were hiding from a crime.
Highlights Valjean's humility and his habit of anonymous charity.
“Remember this, my friends: there are no such things as bad plants or bad men. There are only bad cultivators.”
Remember, there are no inherently bad plants or people, only poor caretakers.
Reflects Valjean's philosophy of redemption and the potential for good in everyone.