# Book VI: Javert explained — Les Misérables

> Chapter companion for Les Misérables by Victor Hugo.

## What happens

This chapter delves into the character of Javert, exploring his rigid adherence to law and authority, his background, and his relentless pursuit of Jean Valjean. It highlights Javert's unwavering belief in the infallibility of the law and his inability to comprehend mercy or redemption, setting the stage for his internal conflict.

## Themes in this chapter

### Justice vs. Law

Javert embodies the conflict between strict legalism and true justice, as he cannot conceive of mercy or redemption, viewing the law as absolute.

### The Human Condition and Fate

Javert's deterministic view of human nature, where a criminal is always a criminal, contrasts with Valjean's transformation, highlighting themes of fate and free will.

## Character check-ins

### Javert

Javert is the central focus of this chapter, with his strict, unforgiving nature and his background as a prison guard's son explored in depth.

### Jean Valjean

Valjean is discussed as the object of Javert's pursuit, representing the criminal that Javert believes must be punished without exception.

## Key lines

> Javert was a man of the strictest integrity, of the most inflexible probity, of the most unbending severity.

Javert is portrayed as a person of absolute moral rigidity, with an unyielding sense of duty and a harsh, uncompromising nature.

_This description establishes Javert's character as the embodiment of law and order, devoid of empathy._

> He had a profound respect for the law, and a profound contempt for those who broke it.

Javert holds the law in the highest regard while looking down upon anyone who violates it, reflecting his black-and-white worldview.

_This quote underscores Javert's central belief system, which drives his actions throughout the story._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se/chapters/book-vi-javert
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se/chapters