Any character can fit into one of two categories, static or dynamic. One can consider the changes undergone by dynamic characters evolutions. These evolutions capture the reader’s attention and focus in a novel. Victor Hugo masters the art of character change with both his characters Jean Valjean and Fantine. Quite simply, both Valjean and Fantine undergo substantial changes in their respective natures. Initially, the reader receives a very negative impression of Valjean. For a …showed first 75 words of 713 total…

…showed last 75 words of 713 total…her destruction, in order to save her child. To recapitulate, Jean Valjean evolves from a despised scoundrel to a beloved martyr as a result of his pure heart. Fantine evolves in quite the negative direction. Fantine, however, evolves because of the greed of society trying to place a monetary value on the infinite love for her daughter. Despite the differences, both characters undergo a change. Clearly, both of these characters make an evolution of identity.