In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," the concept of success is explored through the lens of luck and privilege. The text suggests that true prosperity is often attributed to one's inherent abilities or circumstances rather than hard work and dedication. Success is frequently mistaken for intelligence or merit; winning the lottery, for instance, may lead others to perceive a winner as exceptionally clever, highlighting society's tendency to idolize fortune over effort.

The idea extends to character judgments, where being born into wealth is seen as a substantial advantage. The narrative underscores a critical perspective that most contemporary admiration is superficial and lacks depth, only recognizing the few individuals who achieve greatness through their extraordinary talents. This commentary invites readers to reflect on the discrepancies in how success is valued in society, urging a reconsideration of what it means to truly be great.