# Volume II: Cosette explained — Les Misérables

> Chapter companion for Les Misérables by Victor Hugo.

## What happens

This volume introduces Cosette's early life, her suffering under the Thénardiers, and her eventual rescue by Jean Valjean, who becomes a father figure to her.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Injustice and Poverty

Cosette's exploitation and the Thénardiers' greed highlight systemic injustices faced by the poor.

### Redemption and Transformation

Valjean's rescue of Cosette marks a turning point in his journey toward redemption.

## Character check-ins

### Cosette

The central child character, enduring harsh treatment from the Thénardiers.

### Jean Valjean

Rescues Cosette from the Thénardiers and becomes her protector.

### Thénardier

Exploits Cosette and overcharges for her care.

### Madame Thénardier

Abuses and mistreats Cosette while favoring her own daughters.

### Fantine

Cosette's deceased mother, whose dying wish was for Valjean to care for her daughter.

## Key lines

> Cosette was a little girl of eight, thin and pale, with a look of terror in her eyes.

Cosette, an eight-year-old girl, appeared frail and frightened.

_Describes Cosette's physical and emotional state under the Thénardiers' care._

> The Thénardier inn was a den of misery and greed.

The Thénardiers' inn was a place of suffering and avarice.

_Highlights the oppressive environment Cosette endured._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se/chapters/volume-ii-cosette
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/les_miserables_se/chapters