THE BOOK FAIR

Victor Hugo, a poet and novelist was born in Besancon, France, in 1802.  Hugo believed in and wrote of social change.  Hugo believed in Republicanism:  An end to monarchies replaced with government under control of common men.  Written in line with the Romantic Movement, Victor Hugo’s “Les Miserables”, one of the most praised and popular books of its time, is still considered one of the greatest books in literature.  Victor Hugo died in Paris, France, in 1885.

 

The novel centers on Jean Valjean just released from prison after nineteen years for stealing bread for his starving sister.

Jean finds his way to the church Bishop Myriel, who offers Jean food and lodging for the night.  Jean accepts, but when all turn to sleep, Jean steals the silver and leaves.  Jean, caught by police, must face the Bishop.  The Bishop tells the police the silver belongs to Jean and tells Jean, the silver was a gift from God, and he must use it for good.

 

Jean makes the decision to follow the bishop’s advice and changes his life.  Many years later, Jean becomes a wealthy, respected businessman.   After an incident occurs, and Jean saves a man’s life, Jean is recognized by a former prison guard.

The central theme of the novel presents the redemption of Jean Valjean and the struggle against injustice.  The distinctly descriptive novel, elaborates on social mores, French history, architecture, and the Paris Uprising.