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Questions and Answers
What leads Jean Valjean to steal a loaf of bread?
How long is Jean Valjean initially sentenced to prison for stealing bread?
What emotional change does Jean Valjean undergo during his time in prison?
What could be considered a main theme of Jean Valjean's story?
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Which statement reflects the societal conditions of France as described?
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Study Notes
Context of France in 1796
- Significant hunger among the poor while the rich remained unaffected, highlighting class disparity.
- Harsh winter conditions exacerbated food scarcity for lower classes.
Jean Valjean's Character
- Young, strong, and skilled worker, yet struggles to find employment.
- Lives in Brie with his widowed sister and her seven children, emphasizing familial responsibilities and poverty.
Desperation and Crime
- Faced with his sister's children's hunger, Valjean resorts to theft—stealing a loaf of bread from a bakery.
- The act stems from desperation rather than criminal intent; reflects societal failure to support its vulnerable population.
Punishment and Its Impact
- Sentenced to five years in prison for theft, highlighting the harsh legal system towards the poor.
- After eleven years total (including escaped attempts), Valjean emerges from prison, deeply affected by his experiences.
Transformation Through Suffering
- Prison life transforms Valjean; suffering and brutality replace his former compassion with bitterness and hatred.
- The narrative underscores the psychological and emotional toll of poverty and incarceration on individuals.
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Description
Explore the socio-economic conditions in France in 1796 and how they affected Jean Valjean's life. This quiz examines class disparity, desperation leading to crime, and the impacts of punishment on individuals. Delve into the themes of suffering and transformation within Victor Hugo's work.
