Les misérables

Definition

'Les Misérables' is a novel by Victor Hugo published in 1862 that has been adapted into various forms of musical theater, most notably the highly acclaimed Broadway musical. The story focuses on themes of justice, redemption, and the struggles of the poor in 19th-century France. Its powerful narrative and memorable songs have made it a staple in musical theater, illustrating the intersection of literature and performance art through its emotional depth and social commentary.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Les Misérables' was originally a novel that gained immense popularity before being adapted into a stage musical in 1980, which became a global phenomenon.
2. 'The musical features iconic songs such as "I Dreamed a Dream," "On My Own," and "One Day More," which have become widely recognized and are often performed in various contexts beyond the show itself.
3. 'The story revolves around Jean Valjean, a former convict seeking redemption while being pursued by Inspector Javert, highlighting the conflict between law and mercy.
4. 'The themes of 'Les Misérables' resonate with issues of poverty, social injustice, and the fight for freedom, making it relevant across different cultural contexts and time periods.
5. 'The musical's elaborate staging and emotional music contribute to its powerful storytelling, attracting audiences around the world and earning numerous awards including Tony Awards and Olivier Awards.'

Review Questions

• How does the character development in 'Les Misérables' reflect the themes of justice and redemption?
  • 'In 'Les Misérables,' character development is central to conveying the themes of justice and redemption. Jean Valjean's transformation from a hardened convict to a compassionate benefactor illustrates the possibility of personal change despite societal judgement. His constant struggle with Inspector Javert symbolizes the rigid nature of justice versus moral compassion, ultimately questioning what true justice means in a flawed society.'
• Discuss how the music in 'Les Misérables' enhances the storytelling and emotional impact of the narrative.
  • 'The music in 'Les Misérables' plays a crucial role in enhancing storytelling and emotional impact. The score combines powerful melodies with poignant lyrics that convey deep emotions experienced by characters. Songs like 'I Dreamed a Dream' capture despair, while 'One Day More' builds anticipation among characters facing their destinies. This integration of music allows audiences to connect more profoundly with the characters’ journeys, making the overall experience more impactful.'
• Evaluate the cultural significance of 'Les Misérables' as both a literary work and a musical adaptation in shaping societal views on poverty and justice.
  • 'The cultural significance of 'Les Misérables' lies in its ability to bridge literature and musical theatre while addressing timeless issues such as poverty and justice. As a literary work, it prompted discussions about social inequality in 19th-century France, which still resonate today. Its musical adaptation brought these themes to wider audiences, influencing public perception through emotive storytelling. The show's global reach has sparked conversations about social justice movements worldwide, demonstrating how art can inspire change and empathy towards marginalized communities.'

Related terms

Victor Hugo: 'Victor Hugo was a French writer and poet, best known for his novels 'Les Misérables' and 'The Hunchback of Notre-Dame,' which explore themes of social injustice and human compassion.'

Broadway:

'Broadway refers to the theatrical district in New York City known for its professional plays and musicals, serving as a major hub for theatrical productions and performances.'

Musical Theatre: 'Musical theatre combines songs, spoken dialogue, acting, and dance to tell a story, often incorporating elaborate staging and choreography to enhance the narrative.'