Les Misérables · Chapter
XI: Concussion in the Absolute explained
Jean Valjean, having surrendered to Javert, rides with him in silence to the Rue de l'Homme Armé.
What happens
Jean Valjean, having surrendered to Javert, rides with him in silence to the Rue de l'Homme Armé. Javert pays the coachman and dismisses him, then allows Valjean to ascend alone to Cosette's apartment. When Valjean looks out the window, he is astonished to find that Javert has vanished.
Themes in this chapter
Mercy and Forgiveness
Javert's unexpected departure suggests a form of mercy or release, echoing the Bishop's earlier forgiveness of Valjean.
Redemption and Transformation
Valjean's refusal to resist or consider suicide reflects his moral transformation since his encounter with the Bishop.
Characters to notice
- Jean Valjean
Resigned to his fate, he prepares to warn Cosette about Marius and take final measures, but is stunned when Javert disappears.
- Javert
Acts uncharacteristically by paying the coachman and allowing Valjean to go upstairs alone, then departs without explanation.
- Cosette
Mentioned as the one Valjean intends to warn about Marius's location.
Key passages
“They did not open their lips again during the whole space of their ride.”
They rode in complete silence.
Highlights the tension and finality of the moment between Valjean and Javert.
“Suicide, that mysterious act of violence against the unknown which may contain, in a measure, the death of the soul, was impossible to Jean Valjean.”
Valjean could not consider suicide, as it seemed a violent act against the unknown that might destroy the soul.
Emphasizes Valjean's spiritual growth and rejection of violence even toward himself.
“Javert had taken his departure.”
Javert had left.
The abrupt ending underscores the shocking and ambiguous nature of Javert's decision.