Cours familier de Littérature - Volume 15

by Alphonse de Lamartine

"Cours familier de Littérature - Volume 15" by Alphonse de Lamartine is a critical literary analysis written in the mid-19th century. This volume features a detailed examination of Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables," reflecting on themes, characters, and the implications of genius and society. The author engages in a profound discussion about the nature of art and morality, especially regarding Jean Valjean's character and the societal circumstances that shape him. The opening of this volume begins with an exploration of the character Jean Valjean, who reflects on his tumultuous past, including his imprisonment for stealing bread. It elaborates on Valjean's moral struggles and his transformation from convict to a figure of virtue as he navigates societal expectations and his own conscience. Lamartine presents a nuanced view of Valjean's psyche, highlighting the tension between his innate goodness and the corrupting influence of his past and society at large. This analysis culminates in a complex discussion of moral dilemmas, drawing the reader into the philosophical inquiries surrounding morality, justice, and compassion.