Hidden away in the bell tower of the Cathedral of Notre Dame Quasimodo is treated like a beast. Although he is gentle and kind he has the reputation of a frightening monster because of his physical deformities. He develops affection for Esmeralda a gypsy girl who shows him kindness in return. When the girl is sentenced to an unfair death by hanging Quasimodo is determined to save her. But those closest to Quasimodo have other plans for the gypsy.