Les Miserables

Abstract

The novel as a whole seems incoherent and the only plot is the main character Jean Valjean, who is first prisoner number 24601. Jean Valjean was sentenced to five years in galleys for stealing bread, but is a prisoner of nineteen for trying to escape. After his release, he meets Bishop Myriel, to whom he steals silver cutlery and candlesticks, Valjeana soon falls with a magnifying glass, and the bishop tells the police that he has given him candlesticks and cutlery. This noble deed will change Jean Valjean's whole life, he will become a successful businessman who uses his wealth for the benefit of the poor. As opposed to Jean Valjean's behavior, the book emphasizes the behavior of Police Prefect Javert, who thus becomes an example of “pedantic” power (respectively “strict order.” Javert blindly obeys the law, Jean Valjean treats).