The Thenardiers

The Thenardiers are characters in Victor Hugo’s novel "Les Misérables." They are a greedy, unscrupulous couple who run a crooked inn and exploit others for personal gain. Despite their rough exterior and questionable morals, they are also portrayed as complex figures who occasionally show kindness. Throughout the story, they serve as symbols of corruption and greed, contrasting with the more virtuous characters. Their actions highlight social injustices and the struggles of the poor, making them significant for understanding the novel’s themes of morality, poverty, and redemption.