By Sofiia MarushchakTue. 30 Apr. 20243min Read

10 Famous Les Miserables Quotes

In our blog, we unveil beloved "Les Misérables" quotes, echoing Victor Hugo's timeless themes of redemption, compassion, and societal upheaval.
10 Famous Les Miserables Quotes

"Les Misérables" by Victor Hugo is an epic and sweeping novel that delves into the depths of human suffering, redemption, and the quest for justice. Originally published in 1862, it follows the intertwined fates of several characters, including Jean Valjean, a former convict seeking redemption, and Inspector Javert, who relentlessly pursues him.

As the characters navigate the complexities of love, sacrifice, and forgiveness, Hugo invites readers to reflect on the universal themes of compassion, mercy, and the enduring power of hope. "Les Misérables" remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its epic scope, unforgettable characters, and its poignant portrayal of the human condition.


"Progress must believe in God. The good cannot be served by impiety. An atheist is an evil leader of the human race." – Bishop Myriel

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Bishop Myriel's conviction underscores the importance of faith and moral principles in fostering progress and serving the greater good. His words prompt reflection on the role of belief in guiding human actions and leadership, highlighting the potential consequences of rejecting spiritual values.


"Whom man kills God restores to life; whom the brothers pursue the Father redeems. Pray and believe and go onward into life." – Victor Hugo

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Victor Hugo's message inspires hope and perseverance through faith in divine restoration. It prompts reflection on the transformative power of belief, urging us to move forward with courage in life's journey.


"He who knows the answer to this knows all things. He is alone. His name is God." – Victor Hugo

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Victor Hugo's profound statement emphasizes the omniscience and omnipotence of God. It prompts reflection on the vastness of divine wisdom and the ultimate source of knowledge and understanding.


"It is nothing to die. It is frightful not to live." – Victor Hugo

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Victor Hugo's poignant words capture the essence of fearlessness in embracing life. They prompt reflection on the significance of living fully and the inherent dread in merely existing without purpose or passion.


"Not being heard is no reason for silence." – Victor Hugo

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Victor Hugo's assertion challenges the notion that lack of acknowledgment justifies silence. It prompts reflection on the importance of speaking out, even in the face of indifference or opposition, advocating for the power of individual voices to effect change.


"Laughter is sunshine, it chases winter from the human face." – Victor Hugo

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Victor Hugo's evocative imagery equates laughter with sunshine, symbolizing its ability to dispel darkness and uplift the human spirit. This observation prompts reflection on the transformative power of joy and positivity in overcoming adversity and brightening the collective human experience.


"He never went out without a book under his arm, and he often came back with two." – M. Mabeuf

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M. Mabeuf's penchant for carrying books underscores his dedication to knowledge and intellectual pursuits. This observation prompts reflection on the transformative power of education and the enriching rewards of lifelong learning.


"He sought to counsel and soothe the despairing by pointing to the resigned, and to transform the grief which sees only a pit into the grief with sees a star." – Bishop Myriel

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Bishop Myriel's compassionate approach seeks to comfort the despairing by offering a perspective shift from despair to hope. This observation prompts reflection on the transformative power of perspective in navigating adversity and finding light in moments of darkness.


"The supreme happiness in life is the assurance of being loved; of being loved for oneself, even in spite of oneself." – Bishop Myriel

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Bishop Myriel's wisdom extols the joy of being loved for who we are, unconditionally. This prompts reflection on the profound impact of genuine affection in bringing happiness and fulfillment to life.


"The pupil dilates in darkness and in the end finds light, just as the soul dilates in misfortune and in the end finds God." – Victor Hugo

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Victor Hugo's profound observation draws a parallel between the expansion of the pupil in darkness seeking light and the soul's journey in adversity finding God. This prompts reflection on the transformative nature of hardship, leading to spiritual enlightenment and deeper connection with the divine.


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