Lecture
Professor David Peimer
Saturday 10.10.2026
Professor David Peimer
Les Misérables: Superb Portrayal of History and Psychology, or Sentimental?
Saturday 10.10.2026
How to watch
This lecture starts on 10 October at 5:00pm (UK).
Summary
Aristotle said we feel the most for the character who experiences ‘’undeserved misfortune.’’ Is this the core of Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel—and the musical adaptation—as it sweeps through French history from poverty and injustice to redemption? Staged with soaring music, we contrast Valjean’s fascinating journey from stealing a loaf of bread with Inspector Javert’s obsession with ‘’legalism.’’ Ultimately, the musical turns 19th-century Parisian poverty into a universal myth about the human spirit. In this, does it adhere to Aristotle’s notion, or is it mostly sentimental?
Professor David Peimer
David Peimer is a Professor of Literature, Film and Theatre in the UK. He has worked for the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, New York University (Global Division) and was a Fulbright Scholar at Columbia University. Born in South Africa, David has won numerous awards for playwriting and directing. He has most recently directed Dame Janet Suzman in his own play, Joanna’s Story, at London Jewish Book Week. He has published numerous books, including Armed Response: Plays from South Africa and the digital book Theatre in the Camps. He is on the board of the Pinter Centre (London), and has been involved with the Mandela Foundation, Vaclav Havel Foundation and directed a range of plays at Mr Havel’s Prague theatre.