Questions / Discussion Ideas

In Nazi Germany, Jews had to wear a yellow Star of David, always sewn onto their clothes, branding them as outcasts of society. Many hid the fact that they were Jewish. Even today, many people change their names to hide their heritage.

• What is prejudice? (Break the word down to its parts: pre-judge, or judge before you see the facts)
• Describe the way these outcasts (or "les misérables") are "pre-judged" in our society:
  • African Americans>
  • Jews
  • Homeless people
  • Ex-convicts
  • Native Americans
  • The Handicapped
• Can you name other outcasts of society? Have you ever been "pre-judged" because of the way you look, dress or think? Have you yourself ever felt prejudice toward an outcast? Why?

Jean Valjean breaks parole, changing his name and identity, and starts a new, successful life. When confronted with the fact that another man may go to prison in his place, he turns himself in.

• Was Jean Valjean right in telling the truth, facing another long prison term?
• Would you have done the same in Valjean's place? Why or why not?