Hierarchy and Social Communication in Les Miserables-Blog 1

The dynamics and intensity of emotion the film, “Les Miserables” holds, is undeniable. The dynamics are divided between social class and freedom from the beginning. Jean starts his introduction to the film as someone with no power and does not have the privilege to look anyone he chooses to, in the eye. This is a hierarchy and power conflict between him and Javert, especially with both being men. Of course the body language and shame of Jean cannot be unforeseen. The factors that play into our morals and ethics within us can be pushed aside depending on the current situation such as him being a prisoner. For example when police caught Jean with silver. He was automatically judged with conscious bias based on his appearance and not any other factor. Ethically is this ok? I think the ethical communication between the priest and Jean was an inspirational moment. Yes, the priest lied about the silver being given to Jean but underlining the lie was an understanding and receiving of a good message of values by the priest. The priest values honesty and by him forgiving, gave Jean what he needed to become a more important and vital role in the community as mayor later in the movie. That simple interlude held self-compassion and vulnerability within one conversation. The moral ethics is sometimes determining what is received in a conversation and depends on on how well the message is delivered. Jean took it as an indication of a good act and proceeded to do things for others when given the chance. Fantine is put in a situation where her morals and values are not expressed in the film until after she commits the act of prostitution. She is not communicating her ideals with anyone but herself. She is unable to have an opinion on her morals due to the destitution that relies in her needing to take care of her daughter. Her communication is almost non-existent with other characters because she’s automically put into a certain set of judgments, based on lack of communication and position as a girl in the 1800’s. The movie is only 50 minutes in but the communication patterns are including personal struggling but without having authority to express them with consideration. Desperation of the two main characters is where they are being taken advantage of and clearly no invitation to a respectful discussion from those around them. The interpersonal communication is expressing self-disclosure but not with a great deal of moral due to their limited standing in the community. Obviously this leads to lack of effective empathy in the conversation.