Valjean's quest for redemption begins with an escape from prison. How does Valjean struggle to escape his criminal past? What societal and cultural obstacles stand in his way?

Javert is a man driven by a total commitment to the law. How does this commitment waver? What drives him to die by suicide at the end of the novel?

In what ways does Fantine’s death explore the tragic plight of the poor during the period in which Les Misérables is set?