"Kurjat I: Fantine" by Victor Hugo is a French epic historical novel first published in 1862. Beginning in 1815 and culminating in the 1832 June Rebellion in Paris, the novel follows several characters, particularly ex-convict Jean Valjean and his experience of redemption. The work examines law and grace while exploring France's history, Paris's urban design, politics, moral philosophy, justice, religion, and the nature of romantic and familial love. Hugo depicts society's most downtrodden members in their struggles against poverty, starvation, and ignorance. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
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