The protagonist Étienne Lantier is a 21-year-old mechanic who begins working at Le Voreux after being fired from his railway job for hitting his boss. When he first arrives at Le Voreux, Étienne is overwhelmed by the darkness of the pit and appalled by the job’s poor working conditions and low pay. Although tempted to quit, preferring to starve to death than to work in these conditions, he decides to stay. He is inspired by the discussion of rebellion he hears his first night at Rasseneur’s tavern and also by the vision of Catherine, in whom he develops an early interest. Over time, Étienne, already in possession of a superior education, reads about government and political theory and begins to plan a strike. With both patience and passion, he explains government and theory to the people, gradually inspiring them to loosen their attachment to the socioeconomic hierarchy that oppresses them and convincing them to revolt. A good worker, he gains respect and popularity, and he makes money as a business agent in the miners’ village where he lives with the Maheus. As his own condition improves, he is more and more revolted by poverty, and soon his desire to help the people is inextricably connected to his own personal ambition.