Les Miserables

by

Victor Hugo

Les Miserables: Preface Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
The narrator begins by stating that his book will remain of use as long as society continues to degrade its inhabitants through poverty, hunger, ignorance, and shame.
Though Les Misérables is a novel, the narrator immediately notes its relevance to social issues and asks the reader to keep them in mind.
Themes
Mercy vs. Judgment Theme Icon
History, Revolution, and Progress Theme Icon