The Historical Context of Les Miserables by Victor Hugo
05.17.2023 // By Tome Tailor
Victor Hugo’s monumental novel, Les Misérables, is a literary classic that has captured the hearts and minds of readers worldwide for generations. The book’s intricate plot and extensive cast of characters offer a fascinating study on the complexities of human nature and the nature of change in society.
Les Misérables laid the groundwork for modern historical fiction, offering a deep dive into France’s past and offering lessons for its future. Understanding the historical context of the novel is essential to fully appreciate the motivations behind key characters and events of the story. Let’s dive deep into the historical backdrop of Les Misérables to discover the forces that shaped the turbulent world of early 19th-century France.
The French Revolution and Napoleonic Era
Two significant periods in French history provide a backdrop for the story of Les Misérables: the French Revolution (1789–1799) and the Napoleonic era (1799–1815). By the time Victor Hugo was writing the novel in the 1860s, memories of these events were still fresh in the minds of many in France.
The French Revolution marked the end of the Bourbon monarchy, with the fall of King Louis XVI and the rise of the revolutionary government. It aimed to create a new society based on the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity. However, what started as a quest for democracy and social justice ushered in the Reign of Terror, a tragic period marked by the reign of the infamous Maximilien Robespierre and the execution of thousands, including King Louis XVI and his queen, Marie Antoinette.
After the French Revolution, the political and social landscape of the country remained unstable, paving the way for the rise of Napoleón Bonaparte. Following his coup in 1799, he became the emperor of France, establishing a period of political stability and military expansion but also marked by authoritarian rule and endless wars.
The impact of these events is apparent throughout Les Misérables, with characters shaped by the turmoil and uncertainty of these turbulent times. Characters such as Enjolras and the other revolutionaries found in the novel’s Parisian barricades reflect the ongoing struggle for liberty in a society still reeling from the revolution’s aftershocks.
The Bourbon Restoration and the July Monarchy
Another significant historical event that influences the story of Les Misérables is the Bourbon Restoration in 1814, following Napoleon’s fall from power. King Louis XVIII, the brother of the executed King Louis XVI, took the throne and attempted to bring about a more moderate form of rule.
However, the restored Bourbon monarchy was short-lived, as the July Revolution of 1830 brought an abrupt end, with the rise of the July Monarchy and the reign of King Louis-Philippe. This new government characterized itself as a constitutional monarchy – yet, it continued to face political opposition and civil discontent.
The political climate of this period largely influenced Victor Hugo’s story and its main characters. For instance, Jean Valjean’s journey as an ex-convict seeking redemption occurs amid this backdrop of political and social change.
The June Rebellion of 1832
One of the most dramatic events in Les Misérables takes place during the lesser-known June Rebellion of 1832. This uprising against the July Monarchy was led by a coalition of disenfranchised citizens, including students, workers, and disillusioned republicans.
The novel’s climactic scenes at the barricades feature familiar characters such as Marius, Enjolras, and Éponine, who fight alongside the ill-fated rebels. The June Rebellion ultimately failed, and the July Monarchy continued to rule until the 1848 Revolution. However, the dramatic portrayal of the uprising in Les Misérables serves as a compelling illustration of the passion and tensions brewing beneath the surface of 19th-century French society.
Les Misérables as a Reflection of Victor Hugo’s Political Evolution
As the political landscape of early 19th-century France shifted, so did the views of Victor Hugo. Starting off as a royalist, Hugo later adopted republican and socialistic stances. This political evolution is reflected through the themes that he incorporated into Les Misérables such as the struggle for justice, social inequality, and moral redemption.
While it remains a work of historical fiction, Les Misérables provides a vivid and accurate portrayal of early 19th-century French society. The intricate and compelling story of the novel serves as a lens through which modern scholars and readers can better understand this tumultuous period in French history.
As you can see, there is much to learn from Les Misérables and the historical context surrounding it. If you haven’t read or listened to this timeless classic, it’s high time you do! Purchase and explore Les Misérables on Amazon and embark on a journey through the vibrant and complex society of early 19th-century France.