Candlesticks
The candlesticks symbolizes freedom for Jean Valjean in his life. One example is when he steals silver from the Bishop, and he gets caught with by the gendarme. The bishop lied to the gendarmes saying that he gave it to him and the guards then let Jean Valjean go. The Bishop gave him the candle sticks in reminder that Jean Valjean has to respect others and incorporate God in his new life. This also shows how he has a brand new start after leaving the Bishops house.
The Crucifix
The crucifix symbolizes that God is always watching over Jean Valjean and his actions in life. It made him want to do better in his new life. Also it shows redemption and safety. One example is when Jean Valjean steals from Petite Gervais and after Petite runs away Jean Valjean has a breakdown and tried to find him to return the money that was stolen from him. He asks for forgiveness from God and swears to do better in his new life.
Lonely Tree
The tree symbolizes Jean Valjean being lonely with no one in his life that will give him a chance. No one accepts him after they find out he is a convict, they won't listen to him or even give him a chance to explain himself. The only person who accepts him for who he is the Bishop; a man of God.
Yellow Passport
Jean Valjean's yellow passport signifies his identification. This passport also shows that he is a criminal and has to show it anytime he comes into a new town or wants to get a job. Jean Valjean's passport also shows that he has no freedom and to be judged anytime anyone was to see it. Jean Valjean is ashamed for having it and he was in prison for the wrong reason.
Petite Gervais
Petite is a test to Jean Valjean at the beginning of the book. He is tempted when Petite dropped his 40 sous piece and Jean Valjean fell for it and stole from him. After he stole from him Petite ran away so upset and Jean Valjean tried to find him and give the money back but during the rest of the story Jean Valjean tries to do good by helping all the other homeless Savoyard's like Petite hoping he will find him again in his life so he could pay back his wrong doing.
