Les Misérables · Chapter
Marble Against Granite explained
Marius returns from Vernon to find that his grandfather, M.
What happens
Marius returns from Vernon to find that his grandfather, M. Gillenormand, has discovered the black ribbon and case containing his father's testament. A violent argument erupts when Gillenormand insults Marius's father and the Republic, leading Marius to shout a curse against the Bourbons. Gillenormand orders Marius to leave the house, and Marius departs in indignation, believing his grandfather has destroyed his father's written legacy.
Themes in this chapter
Justice vs. Law
Marius defends his father's honor and the legitimacy of his title against the legal and social rejection by the Restoration.
The Human Condition and Fate
The generational conflict and the tragic consequences of political and familial loyalty.
Suffering and Sacrifice
Marius's father is described as having suffered and sacrificed for his country, only to be forgotten and insulted.
Characters to notice
- Marius Pontmercy
Returns from Vernon, confronts his grandfather over his father's honor, and is expelled from the house.
- M. Gillenormand
Discovers Marius's father's testament and cards, insults the Republic and Marius's father, and orders Marius to leave.
- Mademoiselle Gillenormand
Present during the confrontation, she reads the testament and later receives instructions to send money to Marius.
- Théodule
Mentioned as having encountered Marius at the cemetery in Vernon and retreated in respect.
- Georges Pontmercy
Marius's deceased father; his testament and honor are the central point of the argument.
- Nicolette
Servant who retrieves Marius's belongings and inadvertently loses the medallion containing the colonel's paper.
Key passages
“It was hither that Marius had come on the first occasion of his absenting himself from Paris. It was hither that he had come every time that M. Gillenormand had said: 'He is sleeping out.'”
Marius had been secretly visiting his father's grave at Vernon whenever his grandfather thought he was staying out all night.
Reveals Marius's secret pilgrimages to his father's tomb.
“For my son. — The Emperor made me a Baron on the battlefield of Waterloo. Since the Restoration disputes my right to this title which I purchased with my blood, my son shall take it and bear it. That he will be worthy of it is a matter of course.”
The colonel's testament declares that Napoleon granted him the title of Baron at Waterloo, and despite the Restoration's denial, his son must claim it.
The core of the conflict: the legitimacy of Marius's title and his father's legacy.
“Down with the Bourbons, and that great hog of a Louis XVIII !”
Marius shouts a curse against the Bourbon monarchy and the late king.
Marius's explosive response to his grandfather's insults, leading to his expulsion.
“Be off!”
Gillenormand orders Marius to leave the house immediately.
The final break between grandfather and grandson.