Les Misérables · Chapter
Gavroche's Excess of Zeal explained
Gavroche, while wandering the streets at night, sings revolutionary songs and steals a handcart from a sleeping Auvergnat to bring to his barricade.
What happens
Gavroche, while wandering the streets at night, sings revolutionary songs and steals a handcart from a sleeping Auvergnat to bring to his barricade. He writes a receipt for the cart, but is confronted by a National Guard sergeant. Using the cart as a projectile, he knocks the sergeant down and escapes a fusillade, then resumes his journey and song.
Themes in this chapter
Revolution and Social Upheaval
Gavroche's theft of the cart and his revolutionary song embody the spirit of insurrection and defiance against the established order.
Characters to notice
- Gavroche
Steals a handcart for the barricade, confronts a National Guard sergeant, and escapes a fusillade.
Key passages
“How bully that cart would look on our barricade!”
Gavroche decides to steal the cart for use in building a barricade.
Shows Gavroche's dedication to the revolutionary cause.
“French Republic. Received thy cart Gavroche.”
Gavroche writes a receipt for the cart, claiming it in the name of the Republic.
Highlights Gavroche's playful yet serious commitment to the Republic.