Wretches I

The story of the reformed galley slave Jean Valjean, who gains wealth and devotes himself to helping the poorest until the end of his life, is considered the most famous French novel of all time. A former convict, sentenced to a heavy prison sentence for stealing a loaf of bread, accepts the hospitality of Bishop Myriel and robs him. However, the bishop does not reject Valjean even after that, and this act completely changes Valjean' s life. A former galley worker decides to selflessly help others. She becomes a respected member of society, and eventually even mayor, hiding under the name Madeleine. He takes in the orphaned girl Cosette, promising her mother, who is forced to make a living as a prostitute, that he will take care of Cosette. However, Valjean' s past continues to catch up with him and he continues to be haunted by Commissioner Javert. The novel is a breathtaking social fresco, a colourful depiction of Paris in the 1830s with its mysterious corners, convents, and courtyards, full of human suffering and despair.