Mise(ère)-en-scène : Transposition and the Child in Hugo's and Ly's Les misérables

Abstract: This article explores the relationship between Victor Hugo's novel and Ladj Ly's film, both titled Les misérables , focusing on their shared themes of marginality and societal injustice in the banlieues of Paris. This article further examines how the film transposes Hugo's work, highlighting the continuity of misery and social hierarchies in the banlieue across generations. The article also delves into the representation of children in both works, revealing how they are both victimized by and implicated in systems of violence and prejudice. Lastly, it discusses Ly's use of filmmaking techniques to challenge power dynamics and provide marginalized communities with agency and visibility, both on-screen and in lived experiences.