Les Misérables
Les Misérables: A Classic Novel of Love, Redemption, and Social Injustice
Les Misérables is a French historical novel by Victor Hugo, first published in 1862. It has been translated into over 140 languages and is one of the best-selling novels ever written. The story follows Jean Valjean, a former convict who is released from prison after serving 19 years for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his starving sister and her children. Valjean struggles to rebuild his life and find redemption, but is constantly haunted by his past.
The novel is set in France during the early 19th century, a time of great social and political upheaval. Hugo uses the story of Valjean to explore themes of love, redemption, and social injustice. He also paints a vivid portrait of the poverty and squalor of 19th-century Paris.
Characters
Les Misérables is a sprawling novel with a large cast of characters. The main characters are:
Jean Valjean: A former convict who is released from prison after serving 19 years. He is a complex and sympathetic character who is constantly struggling with his past.
Javert: A police inspector who is obsessed with catching Valjean. He is a rigid and inflexible man who believes that everyone is born with a criminal nature.
Fantine: A young woman who is forced to sell her hair and teeth to support her daughter, Cosette. She is a tragic figure who is ultimately destroyed by poverty and desperation.
Cosette: Fantine's daughter, who is raised by the Thénardiers, a cruel and abusive couple. She is a kind and gentle girl who is eventually rescued by Valjean.
Marius Pontmercy: A young man who falls in love with Cosette. He is a brave and idealistic soldier who fights for the French Republic.
Themes
Les Misérables explores a number of themes, including:
Love and redemption: Valjean's story is one of love and redemption. He is a man who has been corrupted by his past, but he is ultimately redeemed by his love for Cosette and his desire to do good.
Social injustice: Hugo uses the story of Valjean to explore the theme of social injustice. He shows how poverty and oppression can lead to crime and despair.
The power of hope: Les Misérables is a story of hope. It shows how even in the face of great adversity, it is possible to find hope and redemption.
Legacy
Les Misérables has had a profound impact on popular culture. It has been adapted into numerous films, television shows, and stage productions. The novel has also been cited as an influence on a number of other works of literature, including Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist and Fyodor Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment.
Les Misérables is a classic novel that continues to be read and enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a powerful and moving story that explores themes of love, redemption, and social injustice.
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