Les Misérables follows the story of Jean Valjean, an ex-convict who is released from prison and struggles to escape his past. The novel is divided into five parts with short chapters and examines themes of love, compassion, social injustice and the long term effects of the French Revolution. It follows the intertwining stories of Valjean, Fantine, Cosette, Marius and Javert across many years and locations in France.

14. Jean Valjean at Fantine’s deathbed

50. Suggested Essay Topics 1. Discuss the role that family allegiance plays in the lives of Cosette, Marius, and Gavroche. 2. How do you account for Eponine’s selflessness? Is it significant that one of Hugo’s most noble characters is a member of the Thénardier family? 3. Discuss Hugo’s treatment of the Industrial Revolution. Is there any one place or city that best represents the pros and cons of industry? 4. What ultimately drives Javert to suicide? 5. How do Hugo’s descriptions of Paris relate to the central themes of the novel? 6. Discuss the ways in which Valjean both helps and hinders Cosette as she becomes an adult.