Les Misérables · Chapter
VI: In Which Magnon and Her Two Children Are Seen explained
M.
What happens
M. Gillenormand, a proud and eccentric old man, reacts to the arrival of two illegitimate children attributed to him by a woman named Magnon. Despite his initial indignation, he accepts responsibility, paying for their care and visiting them, while reflecting on his family history and his disdain for the modern age.
Themes in this chapter
The Human Condition and Fate
M. Gillenormand's acceptance of the children despite his age and prejudices reflects the unpredictable nature of life and the roles fate plays in family and legacy.
Love and Compassion
Despite his gruff exterior, M. Gillenormand shows compassion by taking responsibility for the children and ensuring their care.
Characters to notice
- M. Gillenormand
The central figure of the chapter, an 84-year-old man who accepts two children attributed to him by Magnon, pays for their upkeep, and visits them.
- The Magnon
The woman who brings the children to M. Gillenormand, claiming he is the father, and receives monthly payments for their care.
- Georges Pontmercy
Mentioned as the soldier who married M. Gillenormand's younger daughter, considered a disgrace by the old man.
Key passages
“With M. Gillenormand, sorrow was converted into wrath; he was furious at being in despair.”
M. Gillenormand turned his sadness into anger, becoming enraged by his own hopelessness.
Describes Gillenormand's emotional response to personal grief.
“He had all sorts of prejudices and took all sorts of liberties.”
He held many biases and allowed himself many freedoms.
Characterizes Gillenormand's personality and worldview.
“One of the facts of which his exterior relief and his internal satisfaction was composed, was, as we have just hinted, that he had remained a brisk spark, and that he passed energetically for such.”
Part of his outward ease and inner contentment came from his reputation as a lively, spirited old man.
Explains Gillenormand's self-image and social persona.
“This he called having 'royal renown.'”
He referred to this reputation as 'royal renown.'
Highlights Gillenormand's pride in his perceived status.
“This royal renown sometimes drew down upon him singular windfalls.”
This reputation occasionally brought him unusual surprises.
Sets up the arrival of the children as a consequence of his reputation.
“M. Gillenormand himself was not at all enraged. He gazed at the brat with the amiable smile of a good man who is flattered by the calumny.”
Gillenormand was not angry; he looked at the baby with a kind smile, flattered by the accusation.
Shows his unexpected reaction to the claim of paternity.