Les Misérables · Chapter
X: Dawn explained
Cosette awakens in her chamber, unaware of the turmoil in Paris.
What happens
Cosette awakens in her chamber, unaware of the turmoil in Paris. She feels hopeful about seeing Marius again, though she has not seen him for three days. She dresses hastily, looks out the window, and weeps briefly before regaining hope. She observes a martin's nest, reflecting on love and family.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Compassion
Cosette's deep love for Marius and her hopeful anticipation of his return.
The Human Condition and Fate
Cosette's oscillation between hope and despair, and her reliance on fate for Marius's return.
Characters to notice
- Cosette
Awakens hopeful, thinks of Marius, observes the martin's nest.
- Jean Valjean
Mentioned as her father, believed to be asleep.
- Marius Pontmercy
Appears in Cosette's dreams and thoughts; she awaits his arrival.
- Toussaint
Mentioned as having spoken about a disturbance; not yet risen.
Key passages
“Cosette knew nothing of what was going on in Paris. She had not been there on the preceding evening, and she had already retired to her chamber when Toussaint had said: “It appears that there is a row.””
Cosette was unaware of the Paris uprising, having gone to bed before Toussaint mentioned the disturbance.
Highlights Cosette's isolation from the revolutionary events.
“She told herself that she was not sure of anything, that to withdraw herself from sight was to be lost; and the idea that Marius could return to her from heaven appeared to her no longer charming but mournful.”
Cosette felt uncertain and feared that being hidden meant losing Marius, making the thought of his return from heaven seem sad rather than joyful.
Illustrates Cosette's emotional turmoil and fear of separation.