Victor Hugo

Victor Hugo is a French icon who achieved success as a poet, dramatist, and novelist. He was a leader of the Romantic campaign against artistic tradition and defied the Second Empire in exile. His breadth of appeal remains evident today, thanks to the popularity of his bestseller, Les Misérables, and its numerous theatrical and cinematic incarnations. This biography provides a concise but comprehensive exploration of his monumental body of work within the context of his dramatic life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 11 February 2019
Publisher: Reaktion Books

Victor Hugo, a towering figure in French culture, left an indelible mark on the world through his diverse talents as a poet, dramatist, and novelist. His remarkable achievements earned him a seat in both houses of the French Parliament. In his fight against artistic tradition and in exile against the Second Empire, Hugo became an embodiment of the progressive ideals of the French Revolution. The world mourned his passing when his state funeral in Paris garnered global attention. His enduring popularity is a testament to his vast appeal, notably through the global success of his novel Les Misérables and its numerous theatrical and cinematic adaptations.

This biography, the first in English in over two decades, offers a concise yet comprehensive journey through Hugo's vast literary legacy. It explores his work within the context of his dramatic life, which was fraught with personal struggles and the tumultuous events of the nineteenth century. From the fall of Napoleon's Empire to the rise of France's Third Republic, Hugo witnessed a cycle of collapse and renewal, which deeply influenced his ideas about freedom and sparked his creative imagination. As Bradley Stephens argues, Hugo's restless intellect and revolutionary spirit propelled him beyond the confines of literary greatness, making him a true embodiment of the times in which he lived.

Victor Hugo's life was marked by tragedy and personal misgivings, which deeply impacted his writing. Despite these challenges, he channeled his emotions into his prolific writing, producing works that resonated with readers worldwide. His novels, such as Les Misérables, are considered classics of French literature, exploring themes of love, justice, and redemption. Hugo's poetry, too, is celebrated for its emotional depth and poetic language, leaving a lasting impression on the literary world.

In addition to his literary prowess, Victor Hugo was a political activist and a champion of social justice. He used his writing to advocate for the poor and oppressed, and his political speeches and essays inspired many to fight for a better world. His activism led to his imprisonment and exile, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of artists, activists, and thinkers.

Victor Hugo's impact on French culture and society is immeasurable. He has been hailed as a national hero and a symbol of French resistance against oppression. His works continue to be studied and celebrated worldwide, and his legacy inspires artists, writers, and thinkers to strive for a better world. In conclusion, Victor Hugo's life and work are a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and social justice. His contributions to literature, politics, and society have left an indelible mark on the world, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Weight: 342g
Dimension: 130 x 199 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789140842