The historical and cultural context of early nineteenth-century France, marked by revolution and social upheaval, deeply influences the structure and themes of "Les Misérables." Victor Hugo employs a multi-perspective narrative that not only highlights individual struggles but also critiques societal injustices, emphasizing the plight of the marginalized and the consequences of poverty. Through characters like Jean Valjean and Fantine, Hugo advocates for compassion and social reform, suggesting that a society’s treatment of its "outcasts" reflects its moral compass. As a modern reader, I am struck by the enduring relevance of these themes, recognizing the parallel struggles of marginalized individuals today and the need for empathy and systemic change in addressing social inequities.
Les Misérables is a sweeping story that, at its core, is about one man's path to redemption. The novel features a large cast of characters and multiple subplots set against the backdrop of political chaos in early nineteenth-century France. Hugo's reputation as "a man of the people" is burnished by the novel. How does the novel's historical and cultural context shape the story's structure, point of view, and themes? What do you think the author is trying to say about how a society treats its "outcasts"? How do you, as a modern reader, respond to the novel's characters, events, and themes? write in 2-5 sentences
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