Why is 'Les Misérables' Called That? Exploring the Roles of Women in the Story

Les Misérables is a poignant tale that explores the lives of people in despair and poverty in 19th-century France. Often misunderstood, the title of this masterpiece is central to its narrative. Let's delve into why the novel is titled as such and explore the rich array of female characters that play pivotal roles in the story.

The True Meaning of the Title

The title Les Misérables, in French, is a plural form meaning "The Miserables," which in this context refers to those who suffer and live in misery. It is important to note that the title is not meant to imply the people in the story are glum or unhappy by default, but rather, they are those who find themselves in unfortunate circumstances.

Women in Les Misérables

The story of Les Misérables is replete with women characters who leave indelible marks on the narrative. Among the most significant are:

Fantine: A single mother whose tragic life forms the crux of the novel's early chapters. Her story is one of hardship and injustice. Cosette: The young daughter of Fantine, born into hardship and later rescued by Jean Valjean. Eponine: A character from a working-class background, she is widely loved but ultimately driven by her own tragic circumstances. Mme. Thenardier: The mother of innkeepers who exploit and mistreat Cosette and Boulatruelle, leading to numerous conflicts in the story.

Additionally, there are countless other minor female characters such as Eponine's sister Azelma, who plays significant roles in the events of the story. These women, while not always central to the plot, are integral to the development of the story and its themes.

Why 'Fewer Miserables' Is a Misnomer

It's a common misconception that the title should be 'Fewer Miserables.' However, this is incorrect. In French, the plural article is always 'les,' not 'las,' regardless of the gender of the subjects. Thus, 'les filles' (the girls) is correct, just as 'les gar?ons et les filles' (all the boys and girls) is used. This grammatical rule applies to titles as well, so the correct title is indeed 'Les Misérables.' Incorrect translations or linguistic misunderstandings can lead to such errors.

Conclusion

Understanding the true meaning behind the title Les Misérables and recognizing the pivotal roles of women in the narrative can greatly enhance one's appreciation of Victor Hugo's masterpiece. The story not only highlights the struggles of the poor and dispossessed but also celebrates the strength and resilience of women in the face of adversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the correct title 'Les Misérables,' not 'Fewer Miserables'?

The correct title is 'Les Misérables,' as the French word 'les' is the plural article for both genders. It translates to 'The Miserables,' not 'Fewer Miserables.'

What are some of the most prominent female characters in Les Misérables?

The most significant female characters include Fantine, Cosette, Eponine, and Mme. Thenardier. Each plays a crucial role in the development of the story and its themes.

How do the female characters contribute to the narrative?

The female characters in Les Misérables contribute significantly to the story's emotional depth and thematic richness. They often face challenges and hardships but demonstrate strength, compassion, and resilience.