The Real Les Misérables

Les Miserables, one of the most popular musicals of all time, is based on a novel of the same name by French author Victor Hugo. Published in 1862, the book referenced what were already historic events, such as the June Rebellion of 1832 and the death of General Lamarque. The novel tells the story of Jean Valjean, a former convict who tries to redeem himself after being shown mercy by a bishop, and his pursuit by the relentless Inspector Javert. Along the way, he encounters various characters who suffer from poverty, injustice, oppression, and violence in 19th century France.

But how much of the novel is inspired by real people and events? And are there still people today who face similar challenges and hardships as the characters in Les Miserables? In this article, we will explore the historical background of the novel, and some of the contemporary examples of the real les miserables around the world.

The Historical Inspiration

Many characters and scenes in Les Miserables are closely inspired by historical figures or events from Hugo’s own life. For example, Jean Valjean is thought to have been largely based on Eugene Francois Vidocq, a reformed ex-convict who later became the first director of French Sureté Nationale crime agency. One of the novel’s most iconic passages, when Valjean saves a man trapped beneath a heavy cart, comes from accounts of Vidocq doing exactly the same thing with one of his workers.

Interestingly, Vidocq’s exploits later in life also inspired the character of Inspector Javert, Valjean’s nemesis. Vidocq is considered one of the fathers of modern criminology, and used his knowledge of the criminal underworld to catch many criminals. However, he also faced accusations of corruption and abuse of power, and was eventually dismissed from his position.

Other characters in Les Miserables are also based on real people or events. For example, Fantine, the single mother who sells her hair, teeth, and body to provide for her daughter Cosette, was inspired by a prostitute that Hugo encountered in 1841. Hugo reportedly saved her from arrest for assault after she was harassed by a young man. Cosette herself was modelled after Hugo’s daughter Adele, who was also adopted by a wealthy benefactor.

The June Rebellion of 1832, which forms the backdrop of the novel’s climax, was a real uprising that took place in Paris after the death of General Lamarque, a popular leader who advocated for social reforms and opposed the monarchy. The rebellion was led by a group of students and workers who erected barricades and fought against the government troops. However, the revolt was quickly suppressed and resulted in many casualties among the rebels.

Hugo himself witnessed some of the events of the rebellion, and even participated in it briefly. He helped a wounded man escape from a barricade, and later wrote about his experience in his diary. He also incorporated some of his friends and acquaintances into the novel as minor characters, such as Marius Pontmercy, Enjolras, Gavroche, and Eponine.

The Contemporary Examples

While Les Miserables is set in a specific historical context, its themes and messages are universal and timeless. The novel explores the issues of social injustice, human dignity, moral responsibility, love, and redemption. It also portrays the resilience and courage of those who suffer from oppression and poverty, and their hope for a better future.

Unfortunately, there are still many people today who face similar situations as the characters in Les Miserables. According to the World Bank, more than 700 million people live in extreme poverty (less than $1.90 a day) around the world. Many of them lack access to basic services such as health care, education, water, sanitation, and electricity. They also face discrimination, violence, exploitation, and human rights violations.

Some examples of the real les miserables in our world today are:

The refugees and migrants who flee from war-torn countries such as Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq, Yemen, and South Sudan. They risk their lives to cross dangerous borders and seas in search of safety and opportunity. However, they often face hostility, discrimination, and exploitation in their host countries. They also struggle to access basic services and legal protection. Some of them end up in overcrowded and unsanitary camps, where they are exposed to diseases, hunger, and violence.

The children who are forced to work in hazardous and exploitative conditions, such as mining, agriculture, manufacturing, domestic service, and prostitution. According to the International Labour Organization, there are about 152 million child laborers in the world, of whom 73 million are engaged in hazardous work. These children are deprived of their rights to education, health, safety, and leisure. They also face physical, psychological, and sexual abuse.

The women who are subjected to gender-based violence, such as domestic abuse, rape, trafficking, forced marriage, female genital mutilation, and honor killings. According to the World Health Organization, one in three women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. These women suffer from physical and mental health problems, social stigma, and lack of access to justice and support services.

The people who are discriminated against or persecuted because of their race, ethnicity, religion, caste, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. They face barriers to education, employment, health care, and political participation. They also face harassment, intimidation, violence, and even genocide.

These are just some of the examples of the real les miserables in our world today. There are many more people who suffer from injustice and oppression in different ways and places. They are often invisible or ignored by the mainstream media and society. They are often denied their dignity and humanity.

The Message of Hope

However, despite their suffering and hardship, these people also have stories of courage, resilience, and hope. They also have dreams and aspirations for a better life. They also have the potential to contribute to the society and the world.

This is where the message of Les Miserables comes in. The novel is not only a critique of the social problems of its time, but also a celebration of the human spirit and the power of love. It shows that even in the darkest times, there is always a ray of light and hope. It shows that even the most miserable and downtrodden can rise above their circumstances and become heroes. It shows that even the most hardened and cynical can change their hearts and find redemption.

The novel also inspires us to act with compassion and justice towards those who suffer. It challenges us to question the status quo and fight for social change. It urges us to recognize the humanity and dignity of every person. It reminds us that we are all connected and responsible for each other.

The message of Les Miserables is as relevant today as it was when it was written. It is a message that can change the lives of those who really suffer in our world for better. It is a message that can change our world for better.