LOS MISERABLES / THE MISERABLES
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Autor:
Victor Marie Hugo
Country:
Spain (ES)
Book Theme:
European writers “without borders”
Publisher:
AUSTRAL
Publishing Year:
2023
He was an influential French writer, poet, playwright and politician, considered one of the greatest exponents of Romanticism in the French language. Frequent stays in Naples and Spain, as a result of his father’s military postings, marked his early years.
His work spanned a wide range of genres, including poetry, novels and plays, and his political and social commitment made him a key figure of the 19th century. Initially close to the monarchy, he became increasingly radicalised towards republican and democratic positions, denouncing social injustice and defending human rights. He was a critic of poverty, injustice and oppression, and his works often reflect the struggle of the marginalised and oppressed. His language is rich and evocative, with an often grandiose and emotive tone.
National Award for Children’s and Young People’s
Abstract
Historical novel, published in 1862, set in the period of the restoration of the French monarchy. Its theme revolves around good, evil, ethics, justice and faith, examining the values of mid-19th century French society and reflecting on human nature in the face of adversity.
It is the story of an ex-convict who wants to reform. It begins with Jean Valjean serving a 19-year sentence for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his family, and after his release from prison, Valjean struggles to escape his past and avoid the persecution of Inspector Javert. Throughout the novel, stories of love, sacrifice and revolution are interwoven, showing the struggle between justice, the law and human compassion in a social context marked by poverty and inequality.
The author portrays a wide range of characters, from the most humble to the most powerful, and shows the complexity of French society at the time. The work culminates with the struggle on the barricades of Paris, where young idealists fight for their ideals, and with the final confrontation between Valjean and Javert.
It is a novel that, despite its length and complexity, offers a powerful reflection on human nature, the capacity for change and the importance of compassion and solidarity in a world marked by injustice.
