For many great deeds are accomplished in times of squalid struggle. There is a kind of stubborn, unrecognized courage which in the lowest depths tenaciously resists the pressures of necessity and ill-doing; there are noble and obscure triumphs observed by no one, unacclaimed by any fanfare. Hardship, loneliness, and penury are a battlefield which has its own heroes, sometimes greater than those lauded in history. Strong and rare characters are thus created; poverty nearly always a foster-mother, may become a true mother, distress may be the nursemaid of pride, and misfortune the milk that nourishes great spirits.
In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," the text highlights that significant achievements often emerge from trying and adverse circumstances. It emphasizes that there exists a quiet bravery in individuals who, while facing dire challenges, resist succumbing to despair or wrongdoing. These unsung heroes endure hardships without seeking recognition, reflecting a courage that stands apart from the celebrated acts of well-known figures in history.
Moreover, the passage illustrates how difficult experiences can shape remarkable character. It suggests that poverty and distress, often seen as mere misfortunes, can instead nurture pride and resilience, fostering a deep and valuable strength in individuals. Thus, the narrative reveals that the struggles of life can be fertile ground for developing greatness, as those who persevere against the odds often emerge as true champions of spirit.
