Les Misérables by Victor Hugo remains one of the best socio-political commentaries from the European continent. Hugo's mastery of storytelling infuses events of the recent past with the concerns of present-day France to create a beautifully written story that can be enjoyed for centuries. Popular opinion towards the French way of life of the time is represented through the life of ex-convict Jean Valjean who attempts to rebuild his life after escaping parole. His life story is closely intertwined with several others and culminates with the events of the June Rebellion in Paris in 1832. The author adopts a commentary style while writing and uses his novel to inspire change and champion the cause of the innovation through rebellion. He believed that major social problems of the time, such as social differences, inequality, poverty, illiteracy, political instability and injustice, could be changed through sedition. So he depicted each of these evils in many different forms in the hope of angering the French. people to defend his cause. Even though Victor Hugo's dreams would not come true until much later, we can learn a lot by analyzing his epic novel, Les Misérables. An important theme of Les Misérables is the injustice of the justice system and how little power people have to change that. Valjean's punishment for stealing bread was the same for someone who stole jewelry or a horse, but it is neither fair nor just. He stole to survive, not for his own benefit; no modern court would have imposed such a severe punishment on him. This theme is also found at the end of the story, when Javert throws himself into the Seine. He is an officer of the law and must uphold the law for fear of reprisal, even if the law is not just. Ja...... middle of paper ......d in all its raw, depressing and violent truths. While being born into the upper middle class, Hugo manages to show the plight of the poor in a realistic and touching way that connects with people of the time on a more than superficial level. Although it initially received mixed reviews, Les Misérables was a worldwide success and is remembered for its depth and insight into the lives of people living under the July Monarchy. The novel's status as a political and social commentary allows readers for years to empathize with the people and inspire change for those still living in such conditions. Each adaptation produced brings a unique twist to the story and reignites interest in the exceptional literary work. Considered by many to be one of the greatest stories ever written, Les Misérables gives us an exclusive look at 19th century French culture..