The Hunchback of Notre-Dame

Frollo is regarded as a severe and devout man, especially after he refuses to meet with the king’s daughter. One night, he receives unexpected visitors: Jacques Coictier (the king’s doctor) and a hooded figure who introduces himself as Compere Tourangeau. Although the doctor and Frollo evidently despise one another, they remain polite as Tourangeau explains that he desperately needs Frollo’s particular set of skills. Frollo indicates that he is not a great believer in medicine, much to the doctor’s disgust, but Tourangeau petitions Frollo for advice regarding healing and astrology. As they talk, Frollo excitedly reveals his interest in the arcane art of “alchemy,” though the doctor hints that Frollo has lost his mind. Tourangeau begs to study under Frollo, who hints that he has acquired knowledge about how to manufacture gold. When Tourangeau asks for the source of Frollo’s knowledge, Frollo points to the Notre-Dame cathedral. The building, he says, is the book he studied. He then points to an actual book, which he says can “kill” the cathedral. Frollo explains to his guests that small things can destroy greater things. As the bells ring, the guests prepare to leave. Tourangeau departs, inviting Frollo to visit him sometime, whereupon Frollo realizes that he is speaking to King Louis XI.