Kurjat I: Fantine

A novel written in the mid-19th century. This work serves as the first part of the larger epic ''Les Misérables,'' exploring themes of social injustice, love, and sacrifice. The story introduces key characters such as the compassionate Bishop Myriel and hints at the plight of the impoverished, particularly focusing on the character Fantine and her struggles. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Charle-François-Bienvenu Myriel, the Bishop of Digne. The narrative delves into his past, his humble beginnings, and his commitment to charity and compassion for the poor, illustrating how he abandoned his previous life of comfort to serve those in need. The opening sets a tone that is both reflective and poignant, emphasizing the bishop's gentle spirit and moral integrity as he conducts his duties within a town rife with hardship. The bishop's life is portrayed as an embodiment of the deep spiritual and ethical dilemmas faced in a society marked by inequality, framing the larger narrative that will unfold throughout the rest of the novel.