Les Misérables · Chapter
XII: The Guard explained
The chapter describes the final catastrophic moments of the Battle of Waterloo, focusing on the entry of the Imperial Guard into the line, their doomed charge, and the heroic yet tragic stand of the French army as the English and Prussian f
What happens
The chapter describes the final catastrophic moments of the Battle of Waterloo, focusing on the entry of the Imperial Guard into the line, their doomed charge, and the heroic yet tragic stand of the French army as the English and Prussian forces overwhelm them. Marshal Ney's desperate bravery and the Guard's suicidal advance are highlighted, culminating in the defeat of the French.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Sacrifice
The Imperial Guard's suicidal charge and Ney's desire to die on the battlefield exemplify ultimate sacrifice and suffering in war.
The Human Condition and Fate
The chapter reflects on the inevitability of defeat and the tragic fate of the French army, as well as the heroic yet doomed human response to overwhelming odds.
Characters to notice
- Georges Pontmercy
Implied as part of the French forces at Waterloo, though not explicitly named in this excerpt.
Key passages
“Conscious that they were about to die, they shouted, “Vive l’Empereur!” History records nothing more touching than that agony bursting forth in acclamations.”
Knowing they faced certain death, the soldiers cried out 'Long live the Emperor!'—a moment of profound agony expressed through cheers that history finds deeply moving.
Highlights the Guard's loyalty and tragic heroism in the face of annihilation.
“Unhappy man, thou wert reserved for French bullets!”
Wretched man, you were destined to be killed by French bullets instead of English ones.
Foreshadows Marshal Ney's later execution by firing squad under the Bourbon Restoration.