Les Misérables

Les Misérables is Victor Hugo’s novel about Jean Valjean, a former prisoner whose efforts to live well bring him into conflict with an unforgiving social order. A bishop’s act of mercy begins a transformation that Valjean must sustain through difficult choices, including his care for Cosette. Inspector Javert’s pursuit sets a rigid conception of duty against a life that cannot be adequately judged by its criminal record. The story extends through poverty, family separation, and political unrest, with historical reflections widening its scope. Hugo gives compassion practical consequences: it requires protection, sacrifice, and responsibility for another person’s future.