Explore Hugo's ideas surrounding the fulfillment of love. Discuss what the novel suggests about what actually causes fulfillment in love, either romantic or platonic. Consider looking at Eponine's love for Marius and reach a conclusion about whether her love remained unfulfilled since it remained unreturned, or if her love was fulfilled because of its transformative nature. Likewise, consider exploring Valjean's love for Cosette, his adoptive daughter, and discuss how the fulfillment that love brought him transformed him into a different individual, capable of loving and being loved in return.
Discuss the potentially damaging effects of unjust punishment as evidenced in the novel's characters. Pay special attention to the characters of Fantine and Valjean. Trace Fantine's decline, starting from her involvement with Tholomyès, and discuss how society's harsh treatment toward her after her affair led her down the road to her destruction. For Valjean, discuss how the severity of the punishment for his first minor crime transformed him into a full-time criminal. Examine the difficulties he faced in redeeming himself afterward.
Compare and contrast the events of the book with actual historic facts about the French Revolution. Research one cause behind the Revolution -- like the broad social divide between the classes -- and provide historical evidence to support or rebuff the impression the novel provides of that cause. Alternatively, discuss Hugo's views concerning revolution as illustrated in this book. Describe how he both justifies and condemns the actions of Napoleon and the students at the barricade, and reach a conclusion about what Hugo likely believes necessary for revolution to thoroughly transform society.
Examine the use of disguises by various characters, particularly Thénardier and Valjean. Describe the dark purposes and intentions behind Thénardier's pseudonyms, like Jondrette, and how this reflects on the character's actions as a whole. Contrast this to Valjean's use of disguise. Determine whether or not Valjean disguises himself in a more honorable manner, and whether or not an honorable disguise has the potential to lead to a fulfilling life. Using the characters and situations in the novel, discuss whether a long, easy life lived through disguise has more value than a short, hard life lived honestly, or vice versa.