Set in 19th-century France, "Os Miseráveis" tells the story of Jean Valjean, a former prisoner who seeks redemption after being released from prison. The novel follows Valjean's journey as he tries to rebuild his life, while being pursued by the relentless police inspector, Javert. Along the way, Valjean befriends a group of characters, including Fantine, a young woman forced into prostitution; Cosette, a young girl who becomes Valjean's adopted daughter; and Marius, a young student who becomes embroiled in the June Rebellion.