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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How much money does Jean Valjean give to the Thénardiers for Cosette in Book III of Part II – Cosette?

2. What is the title of Book VIII of Part II – Cosette?

3. What nation was victorious at the Battle of Waterloo?

4. Fauchelevent tells the nuns that Jean Valjean is his brother named what in Book VIII of Part II – Cosette?

5. Who was defeated at the Battle of Waterloo?

Short Essay Questions

1. What tips Javert off to Jean Valjean’s trail in Book IV of Part II – Cosette?

2. How old is Cosette when she is reintroduced in Book III of Part II – Cosette? How is her living situation described?

3. Who does Jean Valjean meet in the garden in Book V of Part II – Cosette? Where has he met this character before?

4. What leads to Jean Valjean’s epiphany in Book II of Part I – Fantine? What does he realize?

5. What internal conflict does Jean Valjean face in Book VI of Part I – Fantine? How does he resolve the conflict?

6. How does Jean Valjean respond to the advice of Bishop Myriel in Book II of Part I – Fantine? Where do his actions lead him?

7. From what narrative point of view is Les Miserables related? What are the characteristics of this narrative style?

8. What was the significance of the Battle of Waterloo for the French, according to the narrator in Book I of Part II – Cosette?

9. How does Jean Valjean escape from the dead-end alleyway in Book V of Part II – Cosette?

10. What does the author comment on regarding monasticism in Book VII of Part II – Cosette?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe and discuss the character of Javert in the novel. What is Javert’s principle concern with Jean Valjean? How do Javert’s actions in Book V of Part I – Fantine help to define his character? How does Javert’s character evolve throughout the novel?

Essay Topic 2

Transformation in Les Miserables

a. Discuss the theme of transformation in the novel. How does transformation apply to Jean Valjean through the narrative? Does Valjean transform for the better or worse?

b. How does the theme of transformation apply to Javert’s character in Les Miserables? Does Javert emerge from his transformation? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Plot Structure

a. Discuss the plot structure of Les Miserables. In what ways is the narrative related and what effect does this have on the reader?

b. How does Les Miserables compare with other novels written during this time period? Are there specific stylistic elements that can be seen in Victor Hugo’s writing?

(see the answer keys)

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