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- The novel serves as a commentary on the social and political issues of 19th-century France, addressing topics such as poverty, justice, and the impact of revolution. Hugo’s portrayal of characters from different social classes provides a comprehensive view of the injustices prevalent during that time.
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Explore the full book summary, an in-depth character analysis of Jean Valjean, and explanations of important quotes from Les Misérables.
- Marius,” Books One–Three
A summary of “Marius,” Books One–Three in Victor Hugo's Les...
- Marius,” Book Eight: The Noxious Poor
A summary of “Marius,” Book Eight: The Noxious Poor in...
- Saint-Denis,” Books Eight–Fifteen
A summary of “Saint-Denis,” Books Eight–Fifteen in Victor...
- Marius,” Books Four–Seven
A summary of “Marius,” Books Four–Seven in Victor Hugo's Les...
- Jean Valjean,” Books One–Three
A summary of “Jean Valjean,” Books One–Three in Victor...
- Cosette,” Books One–Two
A summary of “Cosette,” Books One–Two in Victor Hugo's Les...
- Marius,” Books One–Three
Les Misérables is a novel about the less fortunate, and the ways in which the very existence of poverty is a result of society’s failures. Victor Hugo makes his mission statement clear in the preface: “[S]o long as ignorance and poverty exist on earth, books of the nature of Les Misérables cannot fail to be of use.”
- Themes
- Key Moments in Les Misérables
- Tone and Style
- Symbols
There are several important themes in this novel. They include: 1. Redemption 2. Sacrifice 3. Love We will discuss these and their importance in ‘Les Misérables‘ below.
Jean Valjean is released from prison and steals a Bishop’s silver.He determines to lead an honest life.Jean Valjean becomes the mayor of Montreuil Sur Mer after changing his name.He meets Fantine, she dies, and he swears to take care of Cosette.Victor Hugo uses a sympathetic and sorrowful tone throughout ‘Les Misérables.’ Hugo was driven by a desire to expose the hardships of the lower class in 19th-century France, and his tone reflects this passion. He paints a vivid picture of the poverty and misery that many characters experience, often using both stark and poetic imagery. This is one ...
The Barricades
One of the most iconic symbols of ‘Les Misérables‘ is the barricades. This symbolizes the struggle of the working class during the June Rebellion in Paris, and it acts as a reminder of the injustice and cruelty experienced by those living in poverty. Hugo often uses barricades to demonstrate how perseverance and solidarity can overcome human struggle and suffering.
The Bishop’s Silver Candlesticks
Another important symbol in ‘Les Misérables‘ is the silver candlesticks given to Jean Valjean by the Bishop. This symbolizes grace and salvation, as they represent Valjean’s redemption from his previous life of crime. In addition, the silver candlesticks also represent a moral responsibility to help those who are less fortunate.
Animals
Throughout the novel, Hugo returns again and again to animals as a source of inspiration for his descriptions of people and their character traits. Birds and snakes are reoccurring images in the novel. The former describes Cosette at more than one point in the book.
The best study guide to Les Miserables on the planet, from the creators of SparkNotes. Get the summaries, analysis, and quotes you need.
‘Les Misérables‘ is an important story of the power of hope and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Its message of justice and redemption transcends time, showing us the power of grace, compassion, and second chances.
‘Les Misérables‘ is a beloved classic by the French author Victor Hugo, first published in 1862. This timeless novel is an epic tale of love, justice, and redemption set against the backdrop of 19th-century France.
Literature Notes. Les Miserables. Book Summary. Jean Valjean, after spending nineteen years in jail and in the galleys for stealing a loaf of bread and for several attempts to escape, is finally released, but his past keeps haunting him. At Digne, he is repeatedly refused shelter for the night.
