The Hunchback of Notre Dame

The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Year: 1996

Runtime: 91 min

Language: English

Directors: Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise

Budget: $100M

DramaRomanceAnimationFamilyMusical

A deformed bell-ringer named Quasimodo yearns to be accepted by Parisian society. Living in the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, encountering a beautiful Roma woman named Esmeralda and facing the cruelty of a power-hungry captain. He must confront prejudice and danger while striving to protect those he cares about and find his place in the world.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)

Trace every key event in The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Esmeralda Captures Hearts

In the heart of Paris in 1482, the beautiful Roma dancer Esmeralda captures the attention of various men, including Captain Phoebus and the disfigured bell ringer, Quasimodo. Her allure becomes the source of both passion and obsession, setting the stage for the ensuing tragedy.

1482 Paris
2

Frollo's Dark Desire

The Archdeacon Claude Frollo, consumed by his twisted desire for Esmeralda, plots to have her abducted. He commands Quasimodo to carry out this plan, revealing the depth of Frollo's obsession and his willingness to exploit Quasimodo's loyalty.

Notre-Dame Cathedral
3

The Rescue by Phoebus

As Quasimodo attempts to carry out Frollo's orders, Captain Phoebus intervenes, leading a rescue that liberates Esmeralda. This event not only strengthens the bond between Esmeralda and Phoebus but also deepens Quasimodo's feelings for her.

Paris
4

Gringoire's Agreement

Gringoire, a poet who tries to save Esmeralda, finds himself outmatched and is knocked unconscious by Quasimodo. In a desperate bid to save her life, Esmeralda agrees to marry Gringoire, though she denies him any physical intimacy, complicating their relationship.

Court of Miracles
5

Quasimodo's Punishment

Quasimodo faces punishment for his actions by being publicly humiliated. Despite the shame, when Esmeralda shows him compassion by offering water, a profound bond forms between them, revealing the depths of Quasimodo's emotions.

Paris
6

Frollo's Jealousy Ignites

Frollo's obsession escalates upon discovering that Esmeralda has taught her pet goat, Djali, to spell Phoebus's name. This knowledge drives Frollo to spy on Phoebus, leading to an explosive confrontation party where jealousy manifests violently.

Paris
7

The Stabbing

During a secret meeting, Frollo's jealousy culminates in tragedy as he stabs Phoebus, believing he is protecting his claim on Esmeralda. This heinous act sets off a series of events that will leave Esmeralda facing severe consequences.

Paris
8

Accusation and Imprisonment

Following Phoebus's injury, Esmeralda is wrongly accused of witchcraft and murder. As she awaits execution, her fate grows increasingly precarious, caught in the web of Frollo's obsession and societal prejudices against her.

Prison
9

Frollo's Madness Deepens

Frollo's madness intensifies as he attempts to force his affections on Esmeralda, further distorting the line between desire and control. Quasimodo, witnessing her suffering, resolves to take action and rescue her from this nightmare.

Notre-Dame Cathedral
10

Quasimodo's Rescue

In a desperate act of love, Quasimodo rescues Esmeralda from her captors, offering her temporary refuge in the cathedral. This act of defiance draws the attention of the law, placing both him and Esmeralda in greater danger.

Notre-Dame Cathedral
11

Rallying the Roma

As news of Esmeralda's impending execution spreads, Clopin, the leader of the Roma, rallies his people to storm Notre-Dame to demand her freedom. This act of solidarity highlights the deep bond within the Roma community, as they fight against injustice.

Court of Miracles
12

Chaos at Notre-Dame

Misunderstanding the Roma's intentions as a riot, Quasimodo emerges to protect the cathedral, leading to chaos and confusion. This unexpected turn of events reaches the king, prompting him to issue a harsh order for Esmeralda's execution.

Notre-Dame Cathedral
13

Sister Gudule's Revelation

In a heartbreaking moment, Sister Gudule reveals to Frollo that she is Esmeralda's long-lost mother. Their brief reunion is tragically interrupted as Esmeralda is captured and taken away to face her execution.

Paris
14

A Tragic Execution

From the heights of Notre-Dame, both Frollo and Quasimodo witness Esmeralda's execution. Overwhelmed by grief and rage, Quasimodo seeks vengeance against Frollo for orchestrating Esmeralda's demise.

Notre-Dame Cathedral
15

Quasimodo's Final Act

In a tragic conclusion, Quasimodo casts Frollo to his death, consumed by despair after losing Esmeralda. Years later, their intertwined skeletons are discovered, symbolizing their tragic love that transcended even death.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Last Updated: November 08, 2024 at 02:12

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Narrative Summary

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The Hunchback of Notre Dame Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Hunchback of Notre Dame

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Hunchback of Notre Dame

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