Victor Hugo

Victor Hugo Biography

Victor-Marie Hugo (February 26, 1802 – May 22, 1885) was a French poet, novelist, and dramatist, and is considered one of the most important figures in French literature. Born in Besançon, France, Hugo was the youngest son of Joseph Léopold Sigisbert Hugo, a general in Napoleon’s army, and Sophie Trébuchet. His early life was marked by the political upheavals of the Napoleonic era, which influenced his later works.

Hugo began writing at a young age, publishing his first collection of poetry, Odes et poésies diverses, in 1822. He quickly became a leading figure in the Romantic movement in France, with works that broke away from classical traditions. His play Hernani (1830) caused a significant stir, symbolizing the triumph of Romanticism over Neoclassicism in French theater.

Among his most famous novels are Notre-Dame de Paris (1831), known in English as The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, which brought attention to the preservation of Gothic architecture, and Les Misérables (1862), a sweeping tale of social injustice in 19th-century France. These works have been adapted into numerous films, plays, and musicals, cementing Hugo's legacy in world literature.

In addition to his literary achievements, Hugo was a passionate political activist. Initially a supporter of the monarchy, he later became a fervent republican, opposing Napoleon III's regime. His political views led to his exile from France from 1851 to 1870, during which he resided in Jersey and Guernsey. During this period, he continued to write prolifically, producing works that criticized tyranny and advocated for social justice.

Victor Hugo died on May 22, 1885, in Paris. His funeral attracted millions, and he was buried in the Panthéon, reflecting his status as a national hero. His works continue to be celebrated for their emotional depth, vivid characters, and commitment to social issues.

Trivia About Victor Hugo

• Hugo's novel Notre-Dame de Paris sparked a movement to preserve Gothic architecture in France.
• He completed his novel Les Misérables during his exile on the island of Guernsey.
• Hugo was also an accomplished artist, leaving behind more than 4,000 drawings.
• He had a habit of writing in the nude to prevent himself from leaving his desk; he would have his clothes hidden to ensure he stayed productive.

Famous Quotes by Victor Hugo

• "Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise."
• "He who opens a school door, closes a prison."
• "Nothing is more powerful than an idea whose time has come."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Victor Hugo?

Victor Hugo was a French Romantic writer, best known for his novels Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, as well as his poetry and plays. He was also a political activist and a key figure in the Romantic movement in France.

What are Victor Hugo's most famous works?

His most famous works include the novels Les Misérables and Notre-Dame de Paris (The Hunchback of Notre-Dame), as well as the play Hernani and the poetry collection Les Contemplations.

What was Victor Hugo's role in politics?

Victor Hugo was initially a supporter of the monarchy but later became a republican and vocal critic of Napoleon III. His political activism led to his exile from France for nearly two decades. He used his writings to advocate for social justice and human rights.

Related Literary Movements

Victor Hugo was a leading figure in the Romantic movement, which emphasized emotion, individualism, and the glorification of the past and nature. His works often challenged classical norms and addressed social and political issues, influencing the development of realism and naturalism in literature.

Explore more about Victor Hugo on eBookTakeAway