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Questions and Answers
What motivated Jean Valjean to steal bread?
How many total years did Jean Valjean serve in prison?
What was the state of Jean Valjean's heart after his years in prison?
What does the story suggest about the treatment of the poor in France?
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What effect did Jean Valjean's time in prison have on him?
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Jean Valjean was sent to prison for 19 years because he stole a loaf of bread.
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The wealthy people in France also experienced hunger during the winter of 1796.
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Jean Valjean's sister had three children.
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Jean Valjean escaped from prison only once.
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After leaving prison in 1815, Jean Valjean felt love in his heart.
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Study Notes
Social Context of 1796 France
- France is experiencing widespread poverty, with the poor suffering from hunger while the wealthy remain unaffected.
- Jean Valjean epitomizes the struggles of the lower class as he finds himself unemployed and starving.
Jean Valjean's Background
- Young, strong, and capable worker, indicating potential for a better life.
- Resides in the village of Brie with his widowed sister and her seven starving children.
- Faces harsh winter conditions with no resources to provide for the family.
Desperate Measures
- Valjean, driven by desperation for his sister's children, resorts to stealing bread.
- He stealthily takes a loaf from a bakery at night, highlighting the extent of his need.
Consequences of Theft
- Caught stealing, Valjean is sentenced to five years in prison, illustrating the severity of the justice system.
- His imprisonment is extended multiple times due to escape attempts, resulting in a total of nineteen years.
Transformation from Prison Experience
- Released in 1815, Valjean emerges profoundly changed, impacted by years of hard labor and mistreatment.
- His previous love and compassion have been replaced by deep-seated resentment and bitterness as a result of his experiences in prison.
Social Context of 1796 France
- France is experiencing widespread poverty, with the poor suffering from hunger while the wealthy remain unaffected.
- Jean Valjean epitomizes the struggles of the lower class as he finds himself unemployed and starving.
Jean Valjean's Background
- Young, strong, and capable worker, indicating potential for a better life.
- Resides in the village of Brie with his widowed sister and her seven starving children.
- Faces harsh winter conditions with no resources to provide for the family.
Desperate Measures
- Valjean, driven by desperation for his sister's children, resorts to stealing bread.
- He stealthily takes a loaf from a bakery at night, highlighting the extent of his need.
Consequences of Theft
- Caught stealing, Valjean is sentenced to five years in prison, illustrating the severity of the justice system.
- His imprisonment is extended multiple times due to escape attempts, resulting in a total of nineteen years.
Transformation from Prison Experience
- Released in 1815, Valjean emerges profoundly changed, impacted by years of hard labor and mistreatment.
- His previous love and compassion have been replaced by deep-seated resentment and bitterness as a result of his experiences in prison.
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Description
Explore the plight of Jean Valjean in 1796 France, where hunger and poverty plague the lives of the poor. This chapter highlights the stark contrasts between the rich and the destitute, showcasing the struggles of a hardworking man facing dire circumstances. Discover the impact of these societal issues as you engage with the text.
