Tomorrow, Tom Hooper’s film adaptation of Les Misérables will debut in theaters nationwide to the delight of millions of fans.
For many, the star-studded cast and sweeping musical numbers are enough to distract from the rich historical text that lies behind every adaptation of Les Misérables. But a look back Victor Hugo's 1862 novel reveals the social, political, and literary impact of a masterpiece that took Hugo nearly 20 years to write.
Patrik Henry Bass, books editor for Essence, discusses the historical and cultural significance of Les Misérables.
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The show is a co-production of WNYC Radio and Public Radio International, in collaboration with New York Times Radio and WGBH Boston.
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Comments [3]
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It was refreshing to hear someone talk about the real story behind "Les Mis". I still love the symbolism and am looking forward to seeing the movie and hearing the music again. There are some songs that got me through a very difficult time on a job years ago.
Not to be petty, but it is pronounced "Lay Mis-uh-rahb". Not "Lay Mis-uh-raraahb-luh."
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