Victor Hugo (1802-1885) was a French novelist, poet, and dramatist, widely considered one of the greatest writers in the French language. His major novels include Les Miserables (1862) and The Hunchback of Notre-Dame (1831). He was also a political figure who served in the French National Assembly and was exiled for 19 years for opposing Napoleon III. His funeral in 1885 was attended by an estimated two million people. He is one of the most adapted authors in history.

What Is Les Miserables About?

Les Miserables follows Jean Valjean, a former convict who breaks parole and rebuilds his life, pursued by the relentless Inspector Javert. Set in early 19th-century France, the novel spans approximately 17 years and encompasses the lives of numerous characters affected by poverty, injustice, and revolution. At 1,500+ pages, it is one of the longest novels in Western literature. Hugo used the novel to argue that poverty was a societal crime, not a personal failing.

Did Hugo Save Notre-Dame?

Yes. In the early 19th century, Notre-Dame Cathedral was in severe disrepair and there were proposals to demolish it. Hugo wrote The Hunchback of Notre-Dame (1831) partly to inspire public interest in the cathedral's preservation. The novel's popularity created a movement to restore rather than destroy the building. A major restoration project began in the 1840s under architect Eugene Viollet-le-Duc.

How Popular Is the Les Miserables Musical?

The musical Les Miserables (1985, English version; 1980, French concept album) has been performed in 53 countries, translated into 22 languages, and seen by over 130 million people. It ran in London's West End for 33 years (1985-2019, plus a revival). The 2012 film adaptation grossed 441 million dollars. It is the third longest-running musical in Broadway history.

Can You Talk to Victor Hugo?

Victor Hugo is available as an AI companion on HoloDream. He wrote to change the world. The world changed.