Overview
Synopsis
One of the world’s most iconic and longest-running musicals, Les Misérables tells the story of Jean Valjean, a former convict who spends a lifetime seeking redemption. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France and the aftermath of the French Revolution, this timeless story of intertwined destinies reveals the power of compassion and the quiet evil of indifference to human suffering. As Valjean’s quest for a new life carries him into Paris and to the barricades of the Student Revolution, he is hunted by Inspector Javert and the ghosts of his past. Amidst a battle for the soul of Paris, he discovers the true meaning of love and salvation. Performed in over 40 countries and 22 languages, and with a lush, swelling score that features such famed songs as “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” and “Bring Him Home,” Les Mis brings Victor Hugo’s revolutionary novel blazingly to life.
Show Information
Context
Show Origins
Les Misérables is based on Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel of the same name. Hugo’s masterpiece is itself inspired by events and people that the author witnessed during his own life. In 1829, Hugo witnessed an incident that would shape the characters of Valjean, Fantine, and Cosette: A man stole a loaf of bread and was escorted to a coach as a mother and daughter played nearby. An arrest over bread happened again in 1846, witnessed not only by the writer but also by some wealthy
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Act One
1815 – Under the watch of cruel wardens, a chain-gang of hopeless convicts pushes through another day of hard labor in Toulon, France (“Look Down/Prologue”). One of the prisoners, Jean Valjean, prepares to begin his parole; he has served nineteen years as “a slave of the law” for stealing a loaf of bread, and then subsequently attempting to escape from prison. The chief officer in charge, Inspector Javert, coldly calls for “Prisoner 24601” and hands Valjean his release papers,
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Interactive Character Map
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Character Portrayals
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Songs
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A song with an asterisk (*) before the title indicates a dance number.
Themes, Symbols & Motifs
THEMES
Mercy and Forgiveness
Mercy and forgiveness abound throughout Les Misérables. In the Prologue, Valjean is taken in by the Bishop of Digne. Overcome with bitterness and rage, Valjean steals some silver, but is quickly arrested and brought back to the Bishop. Rather than allowing the police to take him away, the Bishop gives the former convict silver candlesticks. This moment almost breaks Valjean, as he notes in his soliloquy: _“One word from him and I’d be back, / .. upon the
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“To love another person is to see the face of God.”
[Jean Valjean, Act Two]
This line is sung by Valjean at the very end of the musical, as he dies in peace surrounded by Cosette and Marius. It is both his final blessing and the ultimate moral of the story. After a life of struggle, sacrifice, and redemption, Valjean’s words remind us that true holiness is not found in power or law, but in love. For drama students, it’s a perfect example of how a single line can carry the entire thematic
to read our analysis of select quotes from Les Misérables and to unlock other amazing theatre resources!Key Terms
A powerful, resonant singing technique used in musical theatre to project high notes with chest voice.
A significant event or character that triggers the main action of a story and propels the protagonist into a new direction.
An album where all songs are unified by a theme or story, sometimes adapted into concept musicals.
A flamboyantly dressed male character obsessed with fashion and refinement, often used for satire in English Renaissance drama.
A sudden realization or insight experienced by a character, often marking a turning point.
A philosophical movement emphasizing individual existence and responsibility, often reflected in modern theatre.
A vocal register that allows singers to reach notes higher than their normal range, used for special effects or characterizations.
In theatre and film, the ingénue is a stock character representing a young, innocent, and often naïve woman, typically portrayed with charm and vulnerability. She is usually cast as the romantic interest, embodying purity and youthful idealism in contrast to more worldly or complex characters. The role often highlights themes of coming-of-age, first love, and the challenges of navigating adult society.
A failed 1832 uprising in Paris that inspired the setting and themes of the musical Les Misérables.
Short for 'legitimate theatre,' referring to traditional stage drama as opposed to musical or commercial performance. The term is also used to describe a classical vocal tone suitable for operatic or legit musical theatre roles.
The complete text of an opera, musical, or other extended vocal work, including all spoken dialogue and lyrics. The libretto provides the dramatic structure and narrative arc, serving as a guide for both performers and directors to align story and music.
A large-scale musical with elaborate staging, global appeal, and strong branding, such as *Les Misérables* or *Phantom*.
The process of assigning musical parts to instruments in an ensemble. Orchestration helps shape the sonic texture and emotional tone of a score.
The written music for a theatrical or operatic work, including vocal and instrumental parts. The score is essential for rehearsals and performances.
A speech delivered by a character alone on stage, revealing inner thoughts or emotions to the audience. Common in Shakespearean plays.
A sentimental ballad about unrequited love, often featured in musicals or cabaret performances.
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Guide Written By:
Cindi Calhoun
Theatre teacher, director, writer, and seamstress
Alexandra Appleton
Writer, editor and theatre researcher
Bonnie Antosh, Michael Miller