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1850s: The classic story of the poor and oppressed in Paris
Les Miserables
What you need to know before your trail
Jean Valjean, an escaped convict, is determined to put his criminal past behind him. However, his attempts to become a respected member of the community are constantly put under threat: by his own conscience, when, owing to a case of mistaken identity, another man is arrested in his place; and by the relentless investigations of the dogged policeman Javert.
Valjean must stay free, however, for he has sworn to protect the baby daughter of Fantine, driven to prostitution by poverty. Can one man really stick to his promises in changing and dangerous times?
Travel Guide
Paris
The novel begins in 1815 and culminates in the 1832 June Rebellion in Paris, so details much of the history and culture of France across those years. The story follows the lives of ex-convict Jean Valjean and his experience of redemption as he struggles to create a new life for himself and the girl he has promised to protect.
The novel also elaborates upon the architecture and urban design of Paris, the politics and moral philosophy of the time, justice, religion, and the fight against the monarchy in all its forms. You can’t go to Paris and not ‘see’ les Mis in nearly every street and alley. Victor Hug’s house in Place des Vosges is a must see.
Valjean’s character is loosely based on the life of Eugène François Vidocq. Vidocq was an ex-convict, who became the head of an undercover police unit and later founded France’s first private detective agency!
Booktrail Boarding Pass: Les Miserables
Author/Guide: Victor Hugo Destination: Paris Departure Time: Mid 1800s
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