Les Misrables Socratic Seminar Questions

On a separate sheet of paper, answer at least one question from each category. Include at least one quotation with correct MLA citation to support each of your answers (C/D/W style). Poverty and Prejudice

1. Although they are only on stage a brief time, both Fantine and Gavroche have vital roles to play in Les Misrables and a deep impact on the audience. What makes them such powerful characters? What do they have in common?

2. What is prejudice? (Break the word down to its parts: pre-judge, or judge before you see the facts) How and where does prejudice exist in Les Misrables?

3. Describe the way these outcasts (or "les misrables") are "pre-judged" in our society: African-Americans, Jews, homeless people, Ex-convicts, Native Americans, or the handicapped. How is their treatment similar to people in Les Mis? Think beyond JVJ and his yellow passport. (Remember to use text).

Religion

1. What can non-religious readers, or those of a different faith than Hugo, learn from his book? What truths does Hugo teach that are universalregardless of beliefs?

2. How does the comparison of JVJ to Christ shape the narrative in Les Misrables? Why is Hugo making the comparison?

3. How does the inclusion of a character like Javert, who is obsessed with justice, serve to strengthen Hugos religious argument about how individuals achieve redemption?

Human Nature

1. What is Hugo's view of human nature? Is it naturally good, flawed by original sin, or somewhere between the two?

2. Discuss Hugo's undying belief that man can become perfect. How does Jean Valjean's life illustrate this belief?

3. Discuss the Thnardiers as individuals living in a savage society who have lost their humanity and become brutes. How and why does Hugo use them in his novel? What is he trying to prove with them?

4. Today, many believe, like Javert, that no mercy should be shown to criminals. Do you agree with this? Why?

The End

1. In the end, what does Jean Valjean prove with his life? 2. What does Javert prove with his life? 3. What role does grace play in their redemption?

Themes:

1. Discuss the theme of the Christ figure and / or the hand of God in the novel. Find at least two quotes to support this theme.

2. Discuss the light motif in the novel. Find at least two quotes to support this theme.