Gavroche overcomes this grouping to impress upon the reader the unexpected purity and honor of a simple homeless child. Unlike Jean Valjean, Gavroche is a static character. Instead of a undergoing a major change, such as Valjean's amended philosophy on life, he remains pure and untainted by all that surrounds him. This technique used by Hugo can be just as effective to gain empathy from an audience as one who turns their life around. It is one thing to turn about and change in life and it is another to remain good surrounded by evil.
When exploring character, the values of that individual character mold and shape their actions and decisions. Gavroche holds in high value honesty and generosity. In the instance where Jean Valjean gives his purse to a man who had attempted to rob him of it, Gavroche steals it back from the man. This action shows an honest spirit, for he wishes for those to have what is rightfully theirs. It is also pointed out by the fact that although on the streets and hungry, Gavroche never turned to crime. He kept himself pure in the midst of moral pollution. Another value upheld by Gavroche throughout the novel is the possession of a generous spirit. When one is fighting for survival in such a destitute situation, he often thinks only of himself and his needs. Gavroche, although very needy himself, gives generously throughout the story. He not only fed other orphaned children, but housed them as well in the "elephant," known as the Bastille. Also, when Jean Valjean tries to give Gavroche a gold coin, he simply gives it to a homeless girl. Once again the character shows his unmitigated sense of selflessness.
Emotions are another factor to consider when determining the personality of a character. Whereas Jean Valjean is defined by love, Gavroche would be more accurately defined by joy. He answers to no one, but simply lives and lives happily with himself.