Group Discussion #2

Discussion #2

April 23, 2015

Led by Tommy Lacher

What do you think Jean valjean's motivations were for escaping prison?

• He may have escaped to rescue cosette from the Thenardiers or simply to get out of prison when the chance arose.

Do you think there is any significance to the third person narrative? Do you think there will be? Does it add to the story?

• It adds an interesting perspective to the story where we can switch from different views.

What does the symbolism of birds mean?

• It can symbolize freedom they both feel after escaping from prison and the Thenardiers. The traits of each character are also personified in birds.

Do think the incident with the landlady and the thousand franc bill is significant?

• She becomes suspicious and afraid because he has so much money and must be someone of power

Does cosette' opinion of Jean change after the police chase?

• No, she stays calm during the whole ordeal and still respects him just as much. She might not know what's going on because of her being so young. He might become her teacher later in the story.

On page 138 in the voices scene, where did you think the voices came from at first?

• We thought it might have been a message from God but it turned out to be the choir.

How do you think living in the convent will work out?

• It is going pretty well, especially for cosette who is learning in the school and making new friends. Jean likes his position gardening. Javert might find them again.