Los Miserables (by Victor Hugo, used as a cultural reference)

"Les Misérables," by Victor Hugo, is a sprawling novel set in 19th-century France that explores themes of justice, redemption, and social inequality. It follows characters like ex-convict Jean Valjean, whose moral journey reflects the struggle for personal salvation amid societal injustice. The story intertwines personal stories with historical events, highlighting the plight of the poor, the impact of love and sacrifice, and the pursuit of moral integrity. As a cultural reference, it symbolizes the fight for kindness and justice in the face of systemic oppression, often invoked to evoke compassion for marginalized individuals and societal reform.