Jean Valjean is the main character in Victor Hugo's novel Les Misérables. He is a former convict who served 19 years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his sister's starving children. After his release, he struggles to reintegrate into society due to the stigma of his past. Throughout the story, Valjean transforms from a hardened criminal into a compassionate and selfless man. He adopts a young girl named Cosette, whom he protects from the cruel innkeepers, the Thénardiers. Valjean's journey highlights themes of redemption, love, and the fight against injustice.