Theme of Les Miserable
In Les Miserable, Victor Hugo says love leads both to fulfillment and redemption. As the novel progresses, the main character Jean Valjean undergoes various obstacles and incredible adversity. More importantly, he learns to love and to have passion. In example of his newfound feelings is “His whole heart melted in gratitude and he loved more and more”. This was Jean’s feeling after given the life in the convent with Cosette. He loved being with her and he loved her affection for him. His heart begins to see not only himself, but also others. Nineteen years in the galleys had hardened Jean. It had made him cold and callus. During the story, he realized that through love he could have fulfillment. Near the end of his life, he comes to appreciate the love around him as shown in the quote, “Let me put my hands on your dear beloved heads”. He died with love in his heart. By loving and raising Cosette he was obtaining redemption for his past sins.
Symbol of Les Miserable
In the novel Les Miserable the author Victor Hugo, uses objects and figures to represent ideas and concepts. These symbols appear as powerful messages in the novel. One of the most prominent symbols is the pair of silver candlesticks given to Jean Valjean by the Bishop of D-. The silver candlesticks were more than just light for him, they were objects representing his change to the path of redemption. “Jean Valjean, my brother: you belong no longer to evil, but to good. It is your soul that I am buying from you.” The candlesticks given to Jean were really a symbol of the Bishop giving Jean a second chance in life. “…the light from the candlesticks fell upon him;” The silver pieces were given to him at the turning point of his new life and they were there to watch him go. Once the light fell upon him he passed away, his head facing heaven. He had lived an honorable life and had given second chances to others as the Bishop had requested. He had fulfilled his obligation...