Victor Hugo: The Literary Giant Who Fought for Justice

Portrait photograph of Victor Hugo published in the widely distributed serial publication entitled Galerie contemporaine, littéraire, artistique. Issued in parts from 1876 to 1884 by the firm of Goupil & Cie, the series contained 241 portraits of leading figures from the worlds of art, literature, music, science, and politics by a host of Parisian photographers.

Victor Hugo was born on February 26, 1802, in Besançon, France. A literary giant of the 19th century, Hugo was a poet, playwright, and novelist whose works left an indelible mark on French literature and beyond. His writings often explored themes of justice, love, and the struggles of the human spirit, making him a key figure in the Romantic movement. From an early age, he demonstrated a remarkable talent for writing, winning poetry contests and publishing his first collection of poems at just 20 years old.

Hugo’s novels remain some of the most celebrated in literary history. The Hunchback of Notre-Dame (1831) captured the imagination of readers with its tragic tale of Quasimodo and Esmeralda, while also sparking public interest in preserving the iconic cathedral. However, it was Les Misérables (1862) that cemented his legacy as one of the greatest authors of all time. This sweeping epic of injustice, redemption, and revolution resonated deeply with readers and continues to be adapted into films, musicals, and television series worldwide.

Beyond literature, Hugo was a passionate political figure who used his voice to advocate for social justice. He was a staunch critic of the French monarchy and later Napoleon III’s rule, which led to his exile in 1851. Living in Guernsey for nearly two decades, he continued to write prolifically, producing both poetry and political essays. His exile only strengthened his reputation as a defender of democracy and human rights, and he was welcomed back to France as a national hero when the regime changed.

Hugo’s influence extended beyond books and politics—he was deeply invested in humanitarian causes. He championed the abolition of the death penalty, supported workers’ rights, and fought for free education for all children. His speeches and writings inspired generations of reformers, and his ideas helped shape modern France’s commitment to social justice.

In his later years, Hugo was revered as a living legend. When he passed away on May 22, 1885, at the age of 83, France declared a national day of mourning. More than two million people attended his funeral procession, a testament to the profound impact he had on the world. Today, his works continue to be read, studied, and performed, ensuring that his legacy as a literary master and champion of the people endures.