The essence of love is depicted as a profound dichotomy in Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables." It is portrayed as a force that can either lead to destruction or salvation, suggesting that love carries immense power over human destiny. This complex nature of love serves as a decisive crossroads where one can only choose between drastically opposing outcomes. In essence, love can invigorate life or plunge one into despair.

The human heart, as described by Hugo, is the source of both the greatest joy and the deepest sorrow. It illuminates the path of life while also presenting the potential for suffering. This duality emphasizes the critical role of love in shaping our experiences and destinies, making it a central theme in the narrative of human existence.