Les Misérables (Word Cloud Classics)

Victor Hugo, one of the most celebrated French writers of the 19th century, was born on February 26, 1802, in Besançon, France. Throughout his prolific career, he gained a seminal reputation as a poet, novelist, and dramatist, undergirding the Romantic literary movement in France. Best known for his novels “Les Misérables” and “The Hunchback of Notre-Dame,” Hugo’s works have had a profound influence on countless authors and have etched an indelible mark on the world of literature.

Hugo’s literary prowess was fueled at a young age, publishing his first a volume of poetry, “Odes et poésies diverses,” at just 20 years old. His career soared throughout the 1830s and 1840s, during which he penned some of his most memorable works. Amidst his thriving writing career, Hugo also advocated for social and political issues such as ending the death penalty, championing the downtrodden and poor that often featured prominently in his works.

The common thread in Victor Hugo’s writings was his deep commitment to human rights, primarily the plight of the impoverished and underprivileged. This element keeps his work enduringly significant and widely studied in the world of literature. Hugo passed away on May 22, 1885, leaving a legacy of humanistic literature. His magnificent tales of struggle, resilience, and the human spirit continue to inspire readers all around the globe.