Les Misérables

Main Characters and Their Development

• Jean Valjean - a former convict transformed by the kindness of Bishop Myriel. He becomes the mayor of a town under the name Madeleine, helps those in need, saves Fantine's life, and takes care of her daughter Cosette, ultimately finding peace of mind.
• Javert - an unyielding police inspector pursuing Valjean. He seeks absolute justice, tolerating no deviation from the law, but his worldview is radically changed after Valjean saves his life.
• Fantine - a young woman abandoned to fate after her lover leaves her with a child. To survive, she takes any job, sells her hair and teeth, and falls into poverty and illness. Her tragic fate prompts Jean Valjean to take action.
• Cosette - Fantine's daughter, initially living in poverty and neglect, but later taken in by Valjean, who provides her with love and education. She falls in love with Marius, and their relationship helps illuminate the dark pages of the 1832 revolution.
• Marius Pontmercy - a young revolutionary in love with Cosette. He comes from an aristocratic family but rejects his heritage in favor of republican ideals. His love for Cosette helps him gain a new understanding of life's values and family.
• Thénardier - a swindler and blackmailer exploiting young Cosette and trying to extort money from Valjean. His greed and immorality contrast with the moral integrity of the main characters.
• Gavroche - an orphan and street urchin embodying the spirit of freedom and defiance in Paris. Despite his youth, he shows remarkable resilience and courage during the uprising, symbolizing hope for the future.