Film minimizes bishop

Theology professor sheds light on 'Les Mis' bishop

Hugh Jackman and Anne Hathaway star in a scene from "Les Miserables," the big-screen adaptation of the long-running stage show. CNS photo / Universal Studios.

Catholic News Agency draws attention to a vital Catholic hero in “Les Miserables;” a character who has been significantly “pared down” in the musical and film versions.

Although the pious Bishop Bienvenue is central to the plot of Victor Hugo's “Les Miserables” – which has recently been adapted into an Academy-Award nominated musical – his role is minimized outside the 19th century novel. Although Hugo was anticlerical, he makes the bishop responsible for Jean Valjean’s epic conversion.

Unable to find work because of his mark as an ex-convict, Valjean struggles to survive until he is helped by Bishop Bienvenue, who welcomes Valjean as an honoured guest in his home. Valjean is touched, but still desperate, and steals the silver place-settings from his host’s house, but the bishop tells investigating police that the pieces were a gift.

For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.