Les Miserables
Les Misérables is a French historical novel by Victor Hugo, first published in 1862. It has been adapted into numerous films and stage productions as well as several musicals. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, the story follows Jean Valjean, an ex-convict who struggles to redeem himself despite relentless pursuit by police inspector Javert. Along his journey, he meets Fantine, a single mother who suffers poverty and abuse; Cosette and Marius Pontmercy, two young lovers caught up in the revolution; and many other memorable characters whose lives intertwine with his own throughout the book’s events.
The narrative of Les Misérables spans decades of tumultuous history in France while exploring themes such as justice versus mercy, redemption through love rather than punishment or retribution for past wrongs done to others and ultimately shows how individuals can rise above their circumstances to achieve greatness even when it seems impossible. Through its vivid descriptions of social injustice during this period in French history (such as poverty among working classes) and powerful characterization that brings these issues alive for readers today, Les Misérables remains one of literature’s most beloved works nearly 160 years after its original publication date due to its relevance both then and now.