In today 's world, the moral values of your culture are reflective of who has power over you. Power is the ability to control or influence someone 's behavior and actions directly. No matter your religious views or family reputation, power can be twisted and abused at your own discretion. In both The Kite Runner and Les Miserables, power is determined by ranking of social class and how you are viewed in that society. Throughout the plot of Les Miserables, the distribution of power changes throughout the separate chapters of the book as well as the situations within them. Javert held this sort of power over Jean Valjean throughout most of the story. In the beginning chapters, Jean was considered dangerous and a convict. Javert treats him like this for the rest of his life, no matter what good he has done for the community. Javert feels that it is his duty to obey and enforce the law, he would go to any length to pursue this. “His mental attitude was compounded of two very simple principles, admirable in themselves, but which, by carrying them to extremes, he made almost evil-respect for authority and hatred of revolt against it” said Victor Hugo describing Javert’s one sided manner of thought. Jean lived in constant fear of Javert arresting him and returning him back to the galleys. The Thenardiers played a massive role in abusing power. They feel that since they are “taking care” of Cosette for Fantine willingly, they have the right to treat her any way they deem