What is 24601?

24601 is the prisoner number of the main character, Jean Valjean, in Victor Hugo's novel "Les Misérables." Valjean is a former convict who becomes a respected mayor and philanthropist, but is relentlessly pursued by the strict police inspector Javert. The novel explores themes of redemption, morality, and the impact of socioeconomic inequality. The number 24601 has become iconic in popular culture, often used as a reference to the character and his struggles.