# I: Jean Valjean explained — Les Misérables

> Chapter companion for Les Misérables by Victor Hugo.

## What happens

Jean Valjean, sitting alone on a slope in the Champ-de-Mars, contemplates leaving Paris and France for England due to the threat of Thénardier's presence and political unrest. He is further alarmed by a fresh inscription on his garden wall and a mysterious warning note dropped onto his lap, urging him to move away from his house.

## Themes in this chapter

### The Human Condition and Fate

Jean Valjean's anxiety and decision to flee reflect the constant struggle against fate and the weight of his past.

## Character check-ins

### Jean Valjean

Sitting alone on a slope, troubled by Thénardier's presence and political unrest, deciding to leave Paris and France for England.

### Cosette

Rarely goes out with Jean Valjean now; he has warned her of their planned departure.

### Thénardier

Spotted by Jean Valjean on the boulevard; Thénardier did not recognize him but is prowling in the neighborhood.

## Key lines

> Move away from your house.

Leave your home immediately.

_A mysterious warning note dropped onto Jean Valjean's lap, heightening his sense of danger._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se/chapters/i-jean-valjean
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se/chapters