In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," the author raises critical questions about the state of education and societal priorities. He challenges the reader to reflect on the existence and accessibility of free and compulsory schools, questioning whether everyone in Italy, celebrated for its artistic heritage, is literate. This implies a disconnect between cultural achievements and the fundamental right to education.

Hugo further critiques the allocation of public resources, pointing out the stark contrast between lavish military budgets and inadequate funding for education. He emphasizes the need for societies to invest in their citizens' education rather than prioritizing militaristic expenditures, highlighting a moral imperative to foster knowledge and learning in every community.