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A review by selbyr
Les Misérables by Victor Hugo
5.0
Both amazing and decidedly French. A political book with an accompanying story. One can’t help but to compare what happened before, during and after the French Revolution, an event that essentially lasted 60-70 years dragging the country from a monarchy to a republic, to one’s own country.
By modern American sensibilities, Victor Hugo is an enigma. He portrays himself on one side as a nationalist and staunch Christian, while on the other he is progressive and a socialist. Traits that apparently can’t coexist and yet here he is. More frustrating is that he eloquently and reasonably states his position. Whether you agree with him or not, I dare you to explain your beliefs with the same ability.
I’ve read critiques about Hugo’s digressions throughout the book. But all of his digressions have a point and lead back to the ultimate theme of the book. Plus you get the best brainworms that leave the reader contemplating deeply. His comparison between a riot and an insurrection had me reflecting a great deal.
The book is filled with melodrama, art, charm, amazing feats, catastrophic blunders, and all wrapped up in a beautiful bow. French.
I will go no further dear followers (I’m up to 5). If you like French History, French Art, political intrigue, adventure and exceptional endings, read this book.
By modern American sensibilities, Victor Hugo is an enigma. He portrays himself on one side as a nationalist and staunch Christian, while on the other he is progressive and a socialist. Traits that apparently can’t coexist and yet here he is. More frustrating is that he eloquently and reasonably states his position. Whether you agree with him or not, I dare you to explain your beliefs with the same ability.
I’ve read critiques about Hugo’s digressions throughout the book. But all of his digressions have a point and lead back to the ultimate theme of the book. Plus you get the best brainworms that leave the reader contemplating deeply. His comparison between a riot and an insurrection had me reflecting a great deal.
The book is filled with melodrama, art, charm, amazing feats, catastrophic blunders, and all wrapped up in a beautiful bow. French.
I will go no further dear followers (I’m up to 5). If you like French History, French Art, political intrigue, adventure and exceptional endings, read this book.