Chapter 11
Volume I, Book 9: Continuation of Fantine's Story
The reader will remember that Fantine had left more than ten francs of debt at the Thenardiers'. As soon as she had gone away, the Thenardier dressed their own daughter Eponine and Azelma in Cosette's cast-off clothes, and made her sleep on a pallet in the garret. Fantine paid regularly; but as she never increased the allowance, the Thenardiers declared that the child ate like a wolf. They demanded fifteen francs a month instead of ten. Fantine, unable to say no, sent the fifteen francs. This was the beginning of a systematic exploitation that would continue for years. The Thenardiers…
Critical Thinking Exercise
Exploitation Prevention Strategy
Think of a situation where you or someone you know might be vulnerable to exploitation (childcare, housing, employment, elder care, etc.). Develop a strategy to protect against gradual boundary expansion.
Consider:
- •What early warning signs would indicate escalating demands?
- •How could you maintain alternatives and avoid total dependency?
- •What documentation or support systems would help you resist unfair changes?
- •How would you distinguish reasonable adjustments from predatory expansion?
Journaling Prompt
Describe a time when you felt trapped in an unfair situation that got worse over time. What patterns can you identify, and how might you handle similar situations differently in the future?
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