Set in 15th century Paris, this narrative revolves around Quasimodo, a misshapen bell-ringer at Notre Dame Cathedral, and his unreciprocated affection for the lovely Roma street dancer, Esmeralda. Quasimodo was brought up by the archdeacon Claude Frollo, who harbors lustful feelings for Esmeralda. When Frollo commands Quasimodo to abduct her, the hunchback is apprehended and subjected to public humiliation. Esmeralda, feeling compassion for him, offers him water while he is bound to the pillory. She captures the attention of Captain Phoebus, with whom she falls in love. Frollo, consumed by jealousy, stabs Phoebus and frames Esmeralda for the act. Consequently, she is arrested and sentenced to death. Quasimodo rescues her from the gallows and provides her refuge in the cathedral. Frollo attempts to claim her, but upon her rejection, he delivers her to face execution. As Esmeralda is escorted to the gallows, Quasimodo descends from Notre Dame and carries her back to the cathedral, temporarily shielding her under the law of sanctuary. However, a band of vagabonds led by Clopin Trouillefou assaults Notre Dame, prompting Quasimodo to defend it by hurling stones and timber at the attackers. The king's men arrive to quell the disturbance, and amidst the turmoil, Frollo manages to sneak Esmeralda out of the cathedral. Frollo makes one final effort to win Esmeralda's affection, but she spurns him once more. In a fit of rage, he turns her over to the authorities. As Esmeralda is hanged, Quasimodo retaliates by pushing Frollo from the cathedral tower to his demise. Quasimodo then vanishes, never to be seen again. Years later, when Esmeralda's tomb is opened, two intertwined skeletons are discovered—one belonging to a hunchback embracing the other.
