Publisher's Synopsis
Man does not reach his own nature automatically. He bears within himself the possibility of barbarity, the eventuality of humanity, and must therefore choose between the madness of his instincts and the ethereal heights of his intelligence. This is the aim of life. Fleeing his monstrous childhood without forgetting it, he can build a civilized society with other people who have also attained a firmament of compassionate reason. Jean Valjean, the main character of this novel, follows the chaotic path of this human nature. Inhumane creature at the beginning of the book, he slowly turns into a righteous man who understands that his free will can open the gates of wisdom and help other people to become human beings. Ever since the time of Victor Hugo the world has chosen to ignore Jean Valjean's advice. Every day, individual barbarity gains ground, which creates a social hell that will not last forever. I hope the new translation and adaptation of this chef-d'oeuvre will help the readers to change their mind. Literature is the consciousness of nations; the sublime truth of words enlightens the beast: the looking glass sheds light on his cruelty. Reader, you are about to look in the mirror; soon, it is reason, yours, that will prevent you from breaking the truth into pieces.
