Cosette is perhaps one of the least explained main characters, and actually serves more as a symbol or plot device. She is the only flame in the darkness for this novel. She is the only essence of hope. We first see her as an innocent, beautiful little child. Fate seems to have abandoned her, as her conditions are horrible. Similar to indentured servant, she is forced to do all types of hard labor by the abhorrent Thénardiers. Their daughters, Éponine and Azelma, follow their parent’s example and mistreat her as well. It is fortunate that Valjean saves her before her innocence disappears. After moving out, joy returns to her life, and she is like any other child, frivolous, adorable, adored. Her life is filled with endless wonders. After growing up, she suddenly goes through a phrase when she finds out that she is beautiful. This realization changes her life, and she becomes a beautiful lady, one of the most charming and best dressed. This is when Marius becomes enamored with her. Love is new to her, and she likes the sensation, and her world is opened by it. Sadly, Valjean is replaced with Marius. As the novel ends, she remembers her love for her father, and mourns his death greatly. It is important to note that most main characters in the novel depend on her. Valjean loves her, Fantine gives up herself for her, Marius is obsessed with her.
