Does Edmond complete his revenge?
He destroys Fernand and Danglars socially and financially, exposes Villefort, and sees Caderousse die, but the death of Villefort's innocent son makes him recognize the limits of vengeance.
Why does he spare Danglars?
After starving and terrifying him, Edmond returns part of Danglars's money and releases him. Mercy becomes the proof that Edmond can stop playing Providence.
What happens to Valentine and Maximilian?
The Count secretly saves Valentine from poison, lets Maximilian believe she is dead, and finally reunites them on Monte Cristo as a lesson in endurance and hope.
Where does the Count go?
He sails east with Haydee, leaving his property to the young lovers and a final instruction to wait and hope.
Themes and What the Ending Means
Justice and vengeance: The novel repeatedly asks when deserved punishment becomes private tyranny.
Identity and performance: Names, costumes, wealth, rumor, and manners allow Edmond to operate as several men.
Knowledge as power: Faria's education transforms Edmond as decisively as the treasure does.
Providence and mercy: Edmond's belief that he acts for Providence is corrected when innocent people suffer.