Sean Lei Tabor Introduction to Philosophy of the

Human Person
Grade 12 James Gosling

Les Miserable

Les Miserables, a powerful societal critique of poverty, illiteracy, and the brutality of man by Victor
Hugo, also tells the thrilling story of Jean Valjean, a helpless victim of French society, and his brave battle to
atone for his past. The film was quite beautifully made. The opening had been quite impressive. The actors and
actresses effectively performed their roles and gave the characters representations that the audience could
identify with. I couldn't help but feel completely absorbed while watching that, like if I were traveling through
time or something. I had the impression that I was present when it occurred. Though longer than I had
anticipated, I hadn't felt particularly bored. Every time anything changes, there is something to anticipate.
Although the props (musical score, clothing, etc.) weren't particularly impressive, I believe they were
able to help the audience picture the scene. Excellent lighting and effects were used. I really value its
understated elegance.
What is the key takeaway from Les Miserable?
Les Miserable also exemplified how we learn to value ourselves by giving of ourselves to others. After
receiving incredible kindness, Jean Val jean discovers himself on a mission of love. He goes on to make
numerous selfless sacrifices and inspires those who come into contact with him to do the same.
3 Characters
Jean Valjean, also known as Monsieur Madeleine, Ultime Fauchelevent, Monsieur Leblanc, and Urbain Fabre,
is the book's main character. Nineteen years after being imprisoned for five years after being found guilty of
stealing a loaf of bread to feed his sister's starving children, he gets released on parole (after four unsuccessful
escape attempts added twelve years and fighting back during the second escape attempt added two extra years).
Fantine – A beautiful Parisian Grissett abandoned with a small child by her lover Félix Tholomyès. Fantine
leaves her daughter Cassette in the care of the Thénardiers, innkeepers in the village of Montfermeil.
Javert – A fanatic police inspector in pursuit to recapture Valjean. Born in the prisons to a convict father and a
fortune teller mother, he renounces both of them and starts working as a guard in the prison, including one stint
as the overseer for the chain gang of which Valjean is part (and here witnesses firsthand Val jean’s enormous
strength and just what he looks like).
Why people seek freedom?
1. Freedom is significant because it enables us to live without fear of or tyranny from those who would
seek to enslave us through coercion.
At some point of your life, why you tend to seek freedom?
2. Because having the power to make our own decisions is a form of freedom. We have the freedom to
think and express what we want, to follow the path we desire in life, and to associate with whomever we
want. This enables us to live distinctive lives and be unique individuals.