Final answer:
The phrase "Misery loves company" means unhappy people may feel better when others are unhappy too, and it is showcased in literature through characters' interactions during times of suffering, reflecting the human desire for empathy and shared experiences during trials.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase "Misery loves company" is a proverb that suggests people who are unhappy may get some consolation from knowing that others are unhappy too. People often seek to share their experiences, both good and bad, with others. Sharing one's grief or troubles with someone who is willing to listen and empathize can bring a sense of relief or solidarity. However, the interpretation of this saying can vary, and whether someone agrees or disagrees with it can depend on individual perspectives and experiences.
In literature, this theme often explores a character's isolation and their desire or reluctance to connect with others during times of suffering. For example, the reluctance to burden others with one's problems, or the moments where characters express their loneliness or seek out the company of others to alleviate their own pain, support the notion that misery does seek company.