Marius and Cosette are in love in an ideal, "enlightened" sense at this point. Hugo portrays them as noble innocents who contemplate nature rather than desire each other physically. The telescope and the microscope are instruments used without passion. They are instruments of Science, upon which the Philosophes of the Enlightenment sought to establish the Soul. Perhaps Marius is saying that he loves Cosette with his Soul.
I like Jane's comment. It also seems to me that the microscope suggests even her feet, at the cellular level, interest him. Also, that she is so enormous to him, so Grand and Wonderful that her soul stretches to the the heavens.
Did you miss the meeting? Or did we fail to discuss all the questions? Perhaps something slipped your mind, or only occurred to you later. If so, here's your chance to continue the conversation. For the time being, this blog is open for comment only to registered members of the book group. Other readers may contact me at hcrane@cambridgema.gov. Please, no flaming or cussing.
2 comments:
Marius and Cosette are in love in an ideal, "enlightened" sense at this point. Hugo portrays them as noble innocents who contemplate nature rather than desire each other physically. The telescope and the microscope are instruments used without passion. They are instruments of Science, upon which the Philosophes of the Enlightenment sought to establish the Soul. Perhaps Marius is saying that he loves Cosette with his Soul.
I like Jane's comment. It also seems to me that the microscope suggests even her feet, at the cellular level, interest him. Also, that she is so enormous to him, so Grand and Wonderful that her soul stretches to the the heavens.
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