The story
Victor Hugo's Les Miserables is the story of 'the miserable ones,' the people at the bottom of society, hence the title. The story follows Jean Valjean, his journey from despair to redemption and beyond. The story has everything: life and death, romance and battle, saints and sinners, chases and surprises, and more.
If you haven't read the book, here's a synopsis.
And here are some of the people you'll meet as the story develops. Please note that these pictures are from the old style graphics and will be replaced in a few months.
Jean Valjean, the central figure in the story. It all starts when he is imprisoned for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his sister's starving children.
Bishop Myriel, who changes Valjean's life forever.
Fantine, an innocent woman betrayed by the one she loved. Her life became a living hell because of people who thought they were doing the right thing.
Thenardier, the nearest thing to pure villain you'll find in this complex novel.
Eponine. She gave her heart and her life, but with her upbringing she never had a chance.
Cosette, an innocent child, starved and beaten for profit, she's forgotten she ever had a mother. What do you do?
Javert, Valjean's nemesis. He won't rest until Valjean spends the rest of his life in a filthy prison ship. He's on your trail, and he always gets his man...
Gavroche. Street kids have to be quick thinkers to survive.
Courfeyrac. Revolutionary and party animal. Guns, liberty, and beer!
Marius. Everything he ever believed turns upside down when he discovers the truth about his father.
And all the others. Paris is full of people, and each has a story to tell.
About the book: