Les Misérables (musical)

High school (ages 12+)
Art & Creativity

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/les-misrables-musical

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. Who wrote Les Misérables (musical)?Victor Hugo
2. What is the musical style?Sung-through musical with operatic and dramatic elements
3. What is the year of novel publication?1862
4. What is Les Misérables about?Les Misérables is a musical that follows Jean Valjean, a man who was in jail for 19 years, as he tries to live a good life after being released. He becomes a mayor and cares for an orphan named Cosette, while Inspector Javert keeps chasing him.
5. Why is Les Misérables sung the whole time?The musical is sung through almost all the time, which means almost every line is sung instead of spoken. This helps the audience feel the strong emotions of the story.

Sung-through musical: A theatrical production where the narrative is conveyed almost entirely through song, minimizing spoken dialogue.
Leitmotif: A recurring musical theme associated with a particular person, place, or idea, used to enhance narrative and emotional impact.
Operatic elements: Musical characteristics similar to opera, such as a strong emphasis on vocal performance and dramatic musical structure.
Social commentary: The act of expressing opinions or criticisms about society, often through art or literature.