Les Misérables · Chapter
Return of the Son Who Was Prodigal of His Life explained
Jean Valjean and Javert bring the wounded Marius back to his grandfather's house after the barricade.
What happens
Jean Valjean and Javert bring the wounded Marius back to his grandfather's house after the barricade. Javert announces Marius's return to the porter, who mistakes him for dead. They leave Marius in the care of the household, and Jean Valjean asks Javert for a final favor before surrendering himself.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Sacrifice
Marius's wound and the blood trickling from his hair symbolize the physical cost of his participation in the revolt.
Mercy and Forgiveness
Javert's decision to grant Jean Valjean a final favor before taking him suggests a moment of leniency or mercy.
Characters to notice
- Jean Valjean
Supports the wounded Marius, checks his heartbeat, and asks Javert for a moment to go home before being taken.
- Marius Pontmercy
Brought back to his grandfather's house after being wounded at the barricade; his heart is still beating.
- Javert
Escorts Jean Valjean and Marius to the Gillenormand residence, announces Marius's return, and grants Jean Valjean's request to go home.
- M. Gillenormand
Marius's grandfather; he is left asleep while the household prepares for Marius's arrival.
Key passages
“At every jolt over the pavement, a drop of blood trickled from Marius’ hair.”
Each bump in the road caused a drop of blood to fall from Marius's hair.
Highlights Marius's severe injury and the rough journey.
“Javert addressed the porter in a tone befitting the government, and the presence of the porter of a factious person.”
Javert spoke to the porter with an official tone, as if addressing a potential rebel.
Shows Javert's authoritarian demeanor even in a domestic setting.
“Jean Valjean felt Javert touch him on the shoulder. He understood and descended the stairs, having behind him the step of Javert who was following him.”
Jean Valjean felt Javert's touch on his shoulder, understood the signal, and went downstairs with Javert following.
Indicates Jean Valjean's resignation to his fate and Javert's control.