The story unfolds during the dark decades of early nineteenth-century France — a period of totalitarian government, economic recession and popular anxiety. The main character, Jean Valjean, is an escaped convict who encounters life's vicissitudes and learns from them. However, he is hounded by Javert, the obsessively zealous police inspector and is in constant danger of recapture. In spite of his predicament, he befriends the tragic Fantine and promises to take care of her little daughter, Cosette. In the course of their adventures, Valjean discovers the redemptive power of unconditional love for the orphan girl, and despite many frustrations, he is able to overcome all the ups and downs of their existence with courage and determination.