In Les Miserables, by Victor Hugo, Jean Valjean strives to redeem himself while Javert strives to enforce justice. The goals of these two men, one who was formerly a convict and one is a police officer, constantly contradict each other. Every time Jean Valjean tries to help those suffering from poverty and other misfortunes, Javert is there attempting to send him back to the galleys. Together the two compete against one another to achieve their goals.

The goals of Jean Valjean and Javert first cross when Jean Valjean moves to M-- sur M-- and become a wealthy business man. Formally, Jean Valjean was a convict who upon his release was turned away from every inn in the city. Jean Valjean pursuit of redemption begins when a kind bishop inlays trust in him. The bishop not only forgives Jean Valjean for stealing his silver, but gives him two extra...