Character Analysis: Jean Valjean in Les Miserables
05.17.2023 // By Tome Tailor
Les Misérables, by Victor Hugo, is often heralded as one of the greatest novels of the 19th century. It tells the tale of numerous characters, each with their own complex storylines, set against the backdrop of France during the early 19th century. And perhaps the most well-known and pivotal character in this famous novel is Jean Valjean – a conflicted soul, whose story of redemption has resonated with readers for generations. In this blog post, we will engage in a character analysis on Jean Valjean, exploring his journey and the impact that it has on the broader narrative.
Act 1: From Convict to Reformed Man
When we first meet Jean Valjean, he has recently been released from a 19-year prison sentence. His crime - stealing a loaf of bread to feed his sister and her starving children. This seemingly innocuous act has a profound impact on the trajectory of his life, for it sets the stage for Valjean’s struggle with redemption, love, and the potential for forgiveness.
One of the early turning points in Valjean’s story - and arguably the inciting incident - occurs when a compassionate Bishop encounters the recently released and embittered convict. Despite Valjean’s harsh demeanor and questionable past, the Bishop provides him with food and shelter, without hesitation.
This simple act of kindness has a profound impact on Valjean. For the first time, he begins to question whether he can change his life for the better. And so begins Valjean’s journey to become a better man. He takes on a new identity as Monsieur Madeleine, quitting his criminal past and seeking redemption through charitable deeds and compassion for others.
Act 2: A Protector and Father Figure
Valjean’s transformation is further evidenced by his unwavering commitment to caring for a young orphan named Cosette. After her mother, Fantine, passes away, Valjean makes it his mission to rescue the little girl from a life of neglect and abuse at the hands of the unscrupulous Thénardiers.
We see Valjean evolve from a hardened, bitter man to a tender father figure. He devotes his life to raising Cosette and providing her with love and stability. In doing so, he further distances himself from his criminal past.
But Valjean’s past continues to haunt him, particularly through the determined pursuit of Inspector Javert - a law enforcement official who is hell-bent on bringing Valjean to justice. The cat and mouse game between Valjean and Javert serves as a constant reminder of Valjean’s duality – the struggle to maintain his new identity while his old one remains in the shadows.
Act 3: Selflessness and Sacrifice
As the story progresses, we see Valjean transcend beyond merely being reformed; he becomes a truly selfless individual. Through his protection of Cosette and her love interests, his willingness to risk his own life to save the life of a man falsely accused (Marius), and ultimately revealing his true identity to save Javert (the very man who has hunted him for years).
Valjean’s death at the end of the novel represents not only the conclusion of his journey but also a depiction of the ultimate form of redemption. His last moments reflect on the sacrifices he made, his selflessness, and his unwavering love for those he has cared for.
Throughout Les Misérables, Jean Valjean’s journey is a powerful exploration of the human condition, particularly the potential for redemption, forgiveness, and personal transformation. He stands as a testament to the transformative power of kindness, love, and compassion.
Ready to read or listen to this classic work of literature? Purchase Les Misérables by Victor Hugo on Amazon and immerse yourself in the tale of redemption, love, and revolution.
If you are interested in exploring more characters like Jean Valjean, consider reading Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky, another novel that delves deep into themes of redemption, morality, and the human struggle between good and evil.