# Book III: Accomplishment of the Promise Made to the Dead Woman explained — Les Misérables

> Chapter companion for Les Misérables by Victor Hugo.

## What happens

Jean Valjean, having promised Fantine he would care for Cosette, travels to Montfermeil to retrieve her from the Thénardiers. He pays their exorbitant demands and takes Cosette away, beginning their new life together. The chapter focuses on Valjean's fulfillment of his promise and the rescue of Cosette from her abusive caretakers.

## Themes in this chapter

### Redemption and Transformation

Valjean's rescue of Cosette marks a pivotal step in his redemption, transforming his life from one of isolation to one of purpose and love.

### Love and Compassion

Valjean's compassionate act of rescuing Cosette fulfills his promise to Fantine and demonstrates the power of selfless love.

## Character check-ins

### Jean Valjean

Fulfills his promise to Fantine by rescuing Cosette from the Thénardiers.

### Cosette

Rescued from the Thénardiers and taken away by Jean Valjean.

### Thénardier

Exploits Valjean's need to take Cosette, demanding excessive payment.

### Madame Thénardier

Reluctantly allows Cosette to leave with Valjean.

## Key lines

> He took Cosette in his arms, and carried her away.

Valjean lifted Cosette and left the Thénardiers' inn with her.

_This moment symbolizes Valjean's commitment to protecting Cosette and his fulfillment of Fantine's dying wish._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se/chapters/book-iii-accomplishment-of-the-promise-made-to-the-dead-woman
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se/chapters