The Hunchback of Notre Dame

In 1482 Paris, sixteen-year-old Esmeralda captivates many men with her performances as a Roma dancer. Her charm and beauty draw the attention of prominent figures like Phoebus, Gringoire, and Quasimodo, setting the stage for the unfolding drama. Her lively personality and relationships quickly establish her as a central character in the city’s social scene.

After being sentenced to be flogged and publicly displayed in the pillory, Esmeralda shows compassion by offering water to Quasimodo, who is suffering. Her act of kindness endears her to Quasimodo, who soon recognizes her as a kind and brave individual. This moment cements her connection with Quasimodo, who develops romantic feelings for her.

Frollo, the archdeacon, learns that Esmeralda has been spelling out Phoebus's name and suspects she pines for him. Frollo's jealousy deepens as he follows Phoebus and Esmeralda to a local tavern, observing their secret meeting. His obsession begins to grow as he plots to win her or destroy her.

Frollo follows Phoebus and Esmeralda, witnessing their romantic rendezvous. Driven by jealousy, Frollo stabs Phoebus at a concealed boarding house, believing Esmeralda loves him. Esmeralda sees the attack and faintly recognizes Frollo as the attacker, though the truth is not immediately known.

Accused of attempted murder and witchcraft, Esmeralda is arrested and sentenced to hang. Despite her innocence, her wounds and the evidence lead to her wrongful conviction. While in prison, she is visited by Frollo, who tries to persuade her to reciprocate his love and help her escape.

As Esmeralda is led to execution, Quasimodo swings down from Notre-Dame and carries her away into sanctuary within the cathedral, protecting her from arrest under the law of sanctuary. His act of heroism highlights his devotion and love for her.

Frollo becomes increasingly obsessed with Esmeralda, spying on her and jealous of her interactions with others. He later tries to forcibly assault her in the cathedral, but Quasimodo intervenes, revealing Frollo's identity during the fight and escalating the conflict.

Frollo informs authorities that Esmeralda's right to asylum at Notre-Dame has been revoked, leading to plans for her execution. The Roma retaliate by rallying to rescue her, believing she is wrongly accused. Quasimodo defends the cathedral against the Roma, mistakenly believing they pose a threat.

Esmeralda is taken out of the cathedral and sentenced to hang. Her mother, Sister Gudule, who is secretly her biological mother, reunites with her in a heartfelt moment before she is taken to the gallows. Despite her protests, she is executed, and Frollo's obsession drives him to watch as she dies.

Upon witnessing Esmeralda's execution from Notre-Dame, Quasimodo pushes Frollo from the tower, causing his death. Devastated, Quasimodo is overwhelmed with grief and disappears, his body eventually found many years later clutching Esmeralda's skeleton in a chilling reminder of his love and despair.

Years later, the bones of Quasimodo and Esmeralda are discovered entwined in the crypt of Montfaucon. His skeleton, found embracing hers, symbolizes his lifelong love and obsession. The scene underscores the tragic nature of their lives and the enduring power of unfulfilled love.