Paris Nouveau. Gustave Doré creator. 1862-1863. A poor walking down the Boulevard. (Works Cited)

Poverty A Good Neighbor of Misery:

The poor class, also known as the dangerous class, caused great controversy, turmoil, and change during the 19th century. The majority of the Bourgeoisie looked down upon and despised the poor. Thus, a great class inequality arose. The poor for the most part were only thought of as criminals, vagabonds, prostitutes, and sinful, immoral people. In some part this thought was correct; however, the impoverished were forced into prostitution, begging, and other sinful profession because of their destitute situation. Often times, children received the worst treatment due to these stereotypical beliefs of the Bourgeoisie, and the poor status of their parents. Many were either abandoned, and became wards of the state, or remained in unstable home environments, where they were prone to child abuse and prostitution by their parents.

Although the poor class in France caused controversy and turmoil, they instigated protests and meetings to rally against the treatment of the poor. Feminists in 19th century France were on the rise, starting the first feminists daily newspaper in France. Many women's clubs were started by women who came from small businesses or working class or women from artisan backgrounds. The poor people of France protested against the government, they pleaded the case of the poor asking for government aid to be instituted into regulations. Although the church and government could hear what the people of France we saying many people (especially women) struggled relentlessly to receive any type or charity and welfare.

Much of France's population was poverty-stricken during the 19th century. These citizens were forced into a life of destitution and misery. Innumerable authors have written novels surrounding the lives of the poor, showing great empathy for them. One such novel is Victor Hugo's Les Misérables. Thousands of readers have come to love Hugo's poverty-stricken characters-- most notably, Eponine, Gavroche, Fantine, and the child Cosette.

L'Illustration, 10 February 1844. Artist unknown. Scene from the Boulevard du Temple, a working-class neighborhood of Paris.

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