# A Successful Interrogatory explained — Les Misérables

> Chapter companion for Les Misérables by Victor Hugo.

## What happens

Fauchelevent, Jean Valjean, and Cosette arrive at the convent in Rue Petit-Picpus. Fauchelevent successfully passes the prioress's interrogation by posing as Jean Valjean's brother and Cosette's grandfather. Cosette is admitted as a charity pupil, and Jean Valjean is installed as an assistant gardener under the name Ultime Fauchelevent. The prioress's favorable decision is influenced by her observation that Cosette will grow up ugly, which aligns with the convent's preference for plain girls as potential nuns.

## Themes in this chapter

### Redemption and Transformation

Jean Valjean's entry into the convent under a new identity represents a further step in his transformation and search for sanctuary, building on his redemption arc.

### Suffering and Sacrifice

Cosette's silent suffering and fear during her day at the fruiterer's, and the sacrifices made by Fauchelevent and Jean Valjean to secure safety, underscore the theme of enduring hardship for a better future.

## Character check-ins

### Father Fauchelevent

Orchestrates the entry of Jean Valjean and Cosette into the convent, posing as Jean Valjean's brother and Cosette's grandfather. His successful interrogation and prior deeds elevate his status within the convent.

### Jean Valjean

Enters the convent with Cosette, remaining silent during the interrogation. He is officially installed as an assistant gardener under the alias Ultime Fauchelevent.

### Cosette

Brought to the convent after a day of fearful silence. She is admitted as a charity pupil, with the prioress noting she will grow up ugly, which works in her favor.

### Mother Crucifixion

Mentioned in the context of Fauchelevent's earlier success: her coffin was retained under the altar, contributing to his reputation.

### Gribier

The gravedigger who was spared a fine thanks to Fauchelevent's actions, adding to Fauchelevent's standing.

## Key lines

> She will grow up ugly.

The prioress predicts that Cosette will not be beautiful, which ironically makes her more desirable as a future nun.

_This observation by the prioress is a key factor in Cosette's admission to the convent school._

> There is nothing which examines like a downcast eye.

A lowered gaze can be the most penetrating form of scrutiny.

_Describes the prioress's method of evaluating Jean Valjean during the interrogation._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se/chapters/viii-a-successful-interrogatory
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se/chapters