Les Misérables

From WikiMD's medical encyclopedia

Achille_Devéria_-_Vidocq
Margaret_Bernardine_Hall_-_Fantine_-_Google_Art_Project
Emile_Bayard_-_Cosette
Les_Misérables_-_Cab_roule_en_anglais
Lesmiserables_1900_valjean_rescues_Marius

1862 novel by Victor Hugo


   Les Misérables
Author Victor Hugo
Language French


Les Misérables is a historical novel by Victor Hugo, first published in 1862. It is considered one of the greatest novels of the 19th century. The novel is set in early 19th-century France and follows the lives and interactions of several characters, particularly the struggles of ex-convict Jean Valjean and his experience of redemption.

Plot

The novel is divided into five volumes, each focusing on different characters and themes. The main plot revolves around Jean Valjean, who is released from prison after 19 years for stealing a loaf of bread. He is pursued by the relentless police inspector Javert.

Volume I: Fantine

The first volume introduces Fantine, a young woman abandoned with a child, Cosette, by her lover. Fantine's life deteriorates as she struggles to support her daughter. Jean Valjean, now a wealthy factory owner and mayor, promises to care for Cosette after Fantine's death.

Volume II: Cosette

Jean Valjean rescues Cosette from the abusive innkeepers, the Thénardiers, and they start a new life in Paris. Valjean continues to be pursued by Javert.

Volume III: Marius

The story introduces Marius Pontmercy, a young student who falls in love with Cosette. Marius is involved in the June Rebellion of 1832.

Volume IV: The Idyll in the Rue Plumet and the Epic in the Rue Saint-Denis

This volume details the events of the rebellion and the barricades. Jean Valjean saves Marius, who is severely wounded.

Volume V: Jean Valjean

The final volume concludes with the resolution of the characters' fates. Jean Valjean reveals his past to Marius and dies peacefully.

Themes

Les Misérables explores themes of justice, love, and redemption. It critiques the social and economic injustices of 19th-century France and highlights the struggles of the poor and marginalized.

Characters

  • Jean Valjean - The protagonist, an ex-convict seeking redemption.
  • Javert - The police inspector obsessed with capturing Valjean.
  • Fantine - A poor woman who turns to prostitution to support her daughter.
  • Cosette - Fantine's daughter, raised by Valjean.
  • Marius Pontmercy - A young student and revolutionary who loves Cosette.
  • Éponine - The Thénardiers' daughter, who is in love with Marius.
  • Thénardier - A corrupt innkeeper and criminal.

Adaptations

Les Misérables has been adapted into numerous films, television series, and a highly successful musical.

Related Pages



Template:France-literature-stub

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:

NYC weight loss doctor appointments

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.

Linkedin_Shiny_Icon Facebook_Shiny_Icon YouTube_icon_(2011-2013) Google plus


Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD