Interviewed by Jonathan Burton

What was the political situation in France 18th century and how did this impact the 19th century?

Could you give us a brief summary of Les Misérables and its themes? 

Where did Victor Hugo get his inspirations from and did he weave his own experiences into the book? 

You mention that Les Misérables takes place in the revolution of 1832: could you tell us a bit more about that revolution and why it took place? 

How did les Misérables interpret this revolution? 

Why was 19th century France so unstable? Why were there so many revolutions?  

How was the book Les Misérables first received when first published and have opinions on the book changed over time?