In Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables," there is an exploration of society's shifting perceptions towards individuals based on their circumstances. When someone is on the rise, their actions and qualities are celebrated, yet the same actions are scrutinized when that individual experiences a decline. This reflects a broader human tendency to admire success while being less forgiving towards failure.

Hugo emphasizes the idea that those who have not openly criticized or challenged someone during their moments of success are not entitled to do so when that person faces hardship. Only those who have actively engaged in the struggle are justified in their judgments. Ultimately, when fate intervenes to bring about ruin, it is suggested that society should refrain from intervening, allowing the natural course of events to unfold.