Editor’s Note: This story is part of literary special content. Find related stories here.
Stories have a way of opening for readers new horizons of hope. In a world so often hemmed in by the sorrowful, what a gift it is to be able to turn to literature that offers light, space to contemplate the good, and strength for our journey.
As we approach the conclusion of the Church’s Jubilee of Hope, the Register asked Catholics to share the most hopeful character they have encountered in literature.
Marcie Stokman, founder and president, Well-Read Mom
In Les Misérables, Victor Hugo’s famous prisoner, Jean Valjean, escapes from prison and, through an act of mercy by a holy bishop, undergoes a radical conversion. But what moves me most is not just that moment of grace, but how Valjean continues to live out his conversion.
Again and again, in painful circumstances, he chooses to forgive. He offers mercy. As I watched Valjean grow, in his person and his capacity to forgive and sacrifice, my own desire exploded. I realized that this is the most attractive way to live.
When Valjean returns to prison, I think of how often I find myself back in
