1. Symbolism:
* The Bishop: Represents forgiveness, redemption, and the transformative power of compassion.
* The River Seine: Represents the flow of time, the passage of life, and the constant movement of society.
* The Coin: Represents the power of material possessions and the potential for both good and evil.
* The Red and Black Flags: Symbolize the conflict between the working class and the aristocracy.
* The Scaffold: Represents death, punishment, and the consequences of societal injustice.
2. Allegory:
* The story of Jean Valjean's redemption: An allegory for the potential for human transformation and the possibility of finding grace even after committing sins.
* The rebellion of the students and workers: An allegory for the struggle for social justice and the pursuit of equality.
3. Metaphor and Simile:
* "The Bishop's candles were like stars." (Simile)
* "He was a man who carried his soul in his eyes." (Metaphor)
4. Irony:
* The irony of Fantine's tragic fate: Despite her kindness and innocence, she is forced into prostitution and dies a miserable death.
* The irony of Javert's unwavering adherence to the law: His rigid adherence to the law leads to his own downfall and death.
5. Foreshadowing:
* The early foreshadowing of Jean Valjean's past: The reader is aware of his criminal past from the beginning, which creates suspense and anticipation.
* The foreshadowing of the rebellion: The early chapters hint at the growing unrest and discontent among the working class.
6. Juxtaposition:
* The juxtaposition of poverty and wealth: The novel vividly portrays the stark contrast between the lives of the poor and the privileged.
* The juxtaposition of love and hate: The characters experience both deep love and intense hatred, creating a complex and nuanced emotional landscape.
7. Imagery:
* The vivid descriptions of the Parisian streets, the slums, and the battle scenes: Victor Hugo's detailed descriptions create a powerful sensory experience for the reader.
8. Personification:
* "The city seemed to hold its breath." (Personification)
9. Hyperbole:
* "He was so poor that he had nothing but his poverty." (Hyperbole)
10. Allusion:
* References to historical events and figures: The novel incorporates historical events and figures, enriching the narrative and adding to its realism.
These are just a few of the literary devices that Victor Hugo uses in Les Misérables. His masterful use of language, symbolism, and narrative techniques creates a timeless and unforgettable story that continues to resonate with readers today.