Jean Valjean leaves prison after nineteen years, rebuilt by a bishop's kindness. As Monsieur Madeleine he becomes a respected mayor and factory owner, but Inspector Javert recognizes him and will not let go. When Fantine, a worker dismissed from the factory, is dying, Valjean promises to raise her daughter Cosette, whom he rescues from the cruel Thénardier family. The plot reaches the 1832 Paris insurrection, where Marius, who loves Cosette, fights at a barricade. Hugo adds long reflections on poverty, law, and faith.
Those who want a grand nineteenth-century novel with high emotion and a clear moral center will find it here. The book rewards patience with scenes of sacrifice that are hard to forget.
Deep, contemplative and thought-provoking; a demanding read.
Best for readers like The Deep Diver. Which reader are you?
- Language
- ML
