Change of roles and demoralizing actions

In the first part of the film we viewed for class there is an obvious difference of hierarchy and the way others are perceived due to status. Jean Valjean is treated as a bottom feeding criminal for merely stealing a loaf of bread. This seems like a minuscule offense, but due to his attempts of fleeing he is treated as a real criminal by Javert. Javert speaks to Valjean with no regards of having humanistic qualities. It seems more like he is a robot who must do tasks not meant to be obtainable such as lifting the flag. Javert singles him out by doing this and makes it known to others that he is s criminal that deserves harsh punishment. Javert uses his position to not only make himself know he is a criminal, but as well as others know he is of lower standard.

The parole is still underway because of the demoralizing yellow ticket that proves to others that Valjean is unfit for jobs or acceptance from others. Becoming desperate he steals silver which he believes is the only way he can start a new life again. The only man to offer kindness to him disregarded the fact that he was a criminal and looked at him for the true qualities of his self. Valjean feels shames because the bishop looked past the offense of his past and stealing and continued to say that he should start a life of good. Their communication consists of understanding and acceptance which are two huge aspects of good communication.

During the end of the class period the roles are switched and Valjean has the power over most people. The difference between Javert and Valjean is Valjean talks to every person with dignity and respect no matter what past they have had. He focuses on the conversation rather then the background of the speaker.