Les Misérables · Chapter
The Trap explained
Marius, hidden in the Gorbeau house, witnesses Thénardier's ambush of M.
What happens
Marius, hidden in the Gorbeau house, witnesses Thénardier's ambush of M. Leblanc (Jean Valjean). Thénardier demands a ransom and reveals his role at Waterloo, showing a painting of him rescuing Colonel Pontmercy. Marius is torn between exposing Thénardier and protecting the girl he loves. Valjean, bound, manages to cut his bonds and brandishes a red-hot chisel, but is overpowered by the ruffians.
Themes in this chapter
Justice vs. Law
Marius struggles with the conflict between legal justice (exposing Thénardier) and personal justice (protecting the girl he loves).
Suffering and Sacrifice
Valjean's calm endurance under threat and Marius's emotional turmoil highlight themes of suffering and sacrifice.
Redemption and Transformation
Valjean's resourcefulness and moral strength contrast with Thénardier's greed, suggesting a path of redemption.
Characters to notice
- Marius Pontmercy
Hidden observer, torn between justice and love, recognizes Thénardier from his father's will.
- Thénardier
Leads the ambush, reveals his Waterloo past, demands ransom from M. Leblanc.
- Jean Valjean
Disguised as M. Leblanc, bound but resourceful, cuts his bonds and brandishes a hot chisel before being subdued.
- Madame Thénardier
Returns with news of a false address, enraged, participates in overpowering Valjean.
- Bigrenaille
One of the ruffians, also known as Panchaud or Printanier, unties Valjean's arm for writing.
Key passages
“What did you expect to gain by that?”
Thénardier asks Valjean what he hoped to achieve by giving a false address.
Valjean's response 'To gain time!' leads to his escape attempt.
“I am a soldier of Waterloo, by all the furies!”
Thénardier boasts of his role at the Battle of Waterloo.
This revelation connects to the painting of Pontmercy and Thénardier.