“Les Misérables” is a novel-epic by French classic Victor Hugo. Widely recognized by world literary criticism and by the public as the apotheosis of the writer’s work and one of the greatest novels of the 19th century. First published in 1862. The author depicts the long and difficult life path of the former convict Jean Valjean (the novel’s main character), his worldview; the changes that occurred in his character throughout the narrative; his desire to correct past mistakes, to pursue good, and to sacrifice himself for the freedom and happiness of others. Jean Valjean is one of the most noble and selfless heroes in French literature. He is contrasted with Inspector Javert, who personifies power. He is a cruel and willful man who will stop at nothing so that justice prevails.