Les Misérables · Chapter
Enjolras and His Lieutenants explained
Enjolras organizes a secret meeting at the Café Musain to take a census of revolutionary forces in Paris, assigning tasks to his lieutenants—Courfeyrac, Feuilly, Combeferre, Bahorel, Jean Prouvaire, Joly, and Bossuet—to rally various groups
What happens
Enjolras organizes a secret meeting at the Café Musain to take a census of revolutionary forces in Paris, assigning tasks to his lieutenants—Courfeyrac, Feuilly, Combeferre, Bahorel, Jean Prouvaire, Joly, and Bossuet—to rally various groups. He expresses concern about the apathy at the Barrière du Maine and reluctantly tasks Grantaire, a skeptical but loyal follower, to go there. Grantaire dons a Robespierre waistcoat and departs, while Enjolras later checks on him at Richefeu's, finding him absorbed in a domino game.
Themes in this chapter
Revolution and Social Upheaval
The chapter centers on Enjolras's meticulous planning for a possible uprising, assigning lieutenants to rally various factions and prepare for combat.
The Human Condition and Fate
Enjolras reflects on the gravity of events and the uncertain future, while Grantaire's skepticism and distraction with dominoes highlight human fallibility in the face of grand ideals.
Characters to notice
- Enjolras
Leads the secret meeting, assigns tasks to his lieutenants, and takes charge of the Cougourde of Aix.
- Grantaire
Volunteers for the Barrière du Maine mission despite Enjolras's doubts; dons a Robespierre waistcoat and later plays dominoes at Richefeu's.
- Courfeyrac
Assigned to see the polytechnic students.
- Combeferre
Promised to go to Picpus.
- Feuilly
Assigned to see those of the Glacière.
- Bahorel
Tasked with visiting the Estrapade.
- Jean Prouvaire
Sent to bring news from the masons' lodge.
- Joly
Assigned to Dupuytren's clinical lecture to feel the pulse of the medical school.
Key passages
“It is proper that we should know where we stand and on whom we may count. If combatants are required, they must be provided.”
We need to assess our resources and allies, ensuring we have enough fighters if a conflict arises.
Enjolras emphasizes the need for a census of revolutionary supporters.
“I believe in you.”
My faith is in you, not in abstract principles.
Grantaire expresses his loyalty to Enjolras personally, despite his own cynicism.