Les Misérables · Chapter
Passing Gleams explained
In the midst of the barricade, Enjolras perceives a brief resurgence of insurrection across Paris, as scattered attacks and signs of popular uprising give a fleeting hope.
What happens
In the midst of the barricade, Enjolras perceives a brief resurgence of insurrection across Paris, as scattered attacks and signs of popular uprising give a fleeting hope. However, the military swiftly suppresses these sparks, and the insurgents are left isolated and hungry, facing their impending doom.
Themes in this chapter
Revolution and Social Upheaval
The chapter depicts the ebb and flow of the insurrection, with brief hopes of a general uprising quickly crushed by military force.
Suffering and Sacrifice
The insurgents face hunger and isolation, resigned to death as the military closes in.
Characters to notice
- Enjolras
Remains vigilant at the barricade, interpreting sounds of distant fighting as a sign of Paris awakening, but ultimately acknowledges the failure of the general movement.
- Courfeyrac
Addressed by Enjolras regarding the wounded passing by, indicating they are not from their barricade.
Key passages
“Listen,” suddenly cried Enjolras, who was still on the watch, “it seems to me that Paris is waking up.”
Enjolras, keeping watch, exclaims that he believes Paris is stirring to action.
Enjolras's hopeful observation of renewed insurrectionary activity.
“Their hope did not last long; the gleam was quickly eclipsed.”
The brief moment of optimism faded rapidly.
The fleeting nature of the insurgents' hope as the uprising is suppressed.