Most Popular Books by Victor Hugo

"The story and characters in Victor Hugo''s The Hunchback of Notre-Dame have resonated with succeeding generations since its publication in 1831. It has tempted filmmakers, and most recently animators, who have exploited its dramatic content to good effect but have inevitably lost some of the grays that make the original text so compelling.From Victor Hugo''s flamboyant imagination came Quasimodo, the grotesque bell ringer; La Esmeralda, the sensuous gypsy dancer; and the haunted archdeacon Claude Frollo. Hugo set his epic tale in the Paris of 1482 under Louis XI and meticulously re-created theday-to-day life of its highest and lowest inhabitants. Written at a time of perennial political upheaval in France, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame is the product of an emerging democratic sensibility and prefigures the teeming masterpiece Les Misé rables, which Hugo would write thirty years later"

Hugo''s grand medieval melodrama tells the story of the beautiful Esmeralda, a gypsy girl loved by three men: Archdeacon Frollo, his adoptive son Quasimodo, bell-ringer of Notre-Dame cathedral, and Captain Phoebus. Falsely accused of trying to murder Phoebus, who attempts to rape her, Esmeralda is sentenced to death and rescued from the gallows by Quasimodo who defends her to the last. The subject of many adaptations for stage and screen, this remains perhaps one of the most romantic yet gripping stories ever told. The Hunchback of Notre-Dame is an epic of a whole people, with a cast of characters that ranges from the king of France to the beggars who inhabit the Parisian sewers, and at their center the massive figure--a character in itself--of the great Cathedral of Notre-Dame. Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer of the cathedral; his foster father, the tormented archdeacon Frollo; and the beautiful and doomed Gypsy Esmeralda are caught up in a tragedy that still speaks clearly to us of revolution and social strife, of destiny and free will, and of love and loss. The only widely available hardcover edition of Victor Hugo''s masterful historical novel of medieval Paris--one of the most beloved of world classics.

A new translation from the original French manuscripts of Victor Hugo''s classic 1869 "The Man Who Laughs" (L''Homme qui rit) This influential late novel of Hugo tells the story of a man who is disfigured and forced to live with a permanent smile on his face.It is broadly considered one of Hugo''s most complex and nuanced works and a masterpiece of French literature. The novel''s literary merits include its poetic prose, its exploration of the complexities of human emotions, and its powerful message about the nature of beauty.

Victor Hugo wrote this work whilst in exile for taking part in the events herein described. His story is thrillingly told. The world for the first time gets all the details of the coup d'' état by which Louis Napoleon became emperor of France. The book reads like a novel, and yet its action only goes over two days and is all strictly historical. Its publication caused a great excitement in Paris that October, and probably prevented a similar attack upon the liberties of France and the Republic. At all events, it was this fear which caused Victor Hugo to make his testimony public; for he said, "This work is more than opportune; it is imperative. I publish it."

Jean Valjean has a background of a prisoner, but with a new identity he manages to create a career as a factory owner and a mayor. Not everyone is as lucky as Jean Valjean, though. A woman called Fantine has started to work at Jean Valjean’s factory, but she soon gets fired due to an illegitimate child. Fantine has no choice – she is forced to to a life of prostitution. Victor Hugo’s ''Les Misérables’ is one of the most significant European novels. It takes place in the early 1800’s France, and it follows the tragic paths of multiple characters. ‘Les Miserables’ has been filmed into a movie numerous times. In 2012 Tom Hooper directed a movie starring Hugh Jackman, Russel Crowe and Anne Hathaway. Victor Hugo (1802–1885) was a French writer. He is best known for his novels ‘Les Misérables’ and ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’. Hugo made his debut at a very young age; he published his very first book ''Odes et poésies diverses'' at the age of 20. Hugo was also a human rights activist, and many of his works deal with human rights.

Classic from the year 2009 in the subject Romance Languages - French Literature, language: English, abstract: BOOK SIXTH - LE PETIT-PICPUS*** CHAPTER I. NUMBER 62 RUE PETIT-PICPUS*** Nothing, half a century ago, more resembled every other carriage gate than the carriage gate of Number 62 Rue Petit-Picpus. This entrance, which usually stood ajar in the most inviting fashion, permitted a view of two things, neither of which have anything very funereal about them, --a courtyard surrounded by walls hung with vines, and the face of a lounging porter. Above the wall, at the bottom of the court, tall trees were visible. When a ray of sunlight enlivened the courtyard, when a glass of wine cheered up the porter, it was difficult to pass Number 62 Little Picpus Street without carrying away a smiling impression of it. Nevertheless, it was a sombre place of which one had had a glimpse.[...] *** BOOK SEVENTH. PARENTHESIS*** CHAPTER I. THE CONVENT AS AN ABSTRACT IDEA**** This book is a drama, whose leading personage is the Infinite. Man is the second. Such being the case, and a convent having happened to be on our road, it has been our duty to enter it. Why? Because the convent, which is common to the Orient as well as to the Occident, to antiquity as well as to modern times, to paganism, to Buddhism, to Mahometanism, as well as to Christianity, is one of the optical apparatuses applied by man to the Infinite. This is not the place for enlarging disproportionately on certain ideas; nevertheless, while absolutely maintaining our reserves, our restrictions, and even our indignations, we must say that every time we encounter man in the Infinite, either well or ill understood, we feel ourselves overpowered with respect. There is, in the synagogue, in the mosque, in the pagoda, in the wigwam, a hideous side which we execrate, and a sublime side, which we adore. What a contemplation for the mind, and what endless food for thought, is the reverberation of God upon the human wall![...]

Victor Hugo''s Les Misérables is a timeless masterpiece that delves into the depths of human struggle, redemption, and the enduring power of love and compassion. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, this epic novel weaves together the lives of its unforgettable characters—Jean Valjean, the ex-convict seeking redemption; Fantine, the tragic mother; Cosette, the innocent child; and Inspector Javert, the relentless lawman. Through their intertwined stories, Hugo explores themes of justice, poverty, and the resilience of the human spirit. Rich in historical detail and emotional depth, Les Misérables is not just a novel, but a profound reflection on society, morality, and the possibility of transformation. A tale of hope amidst despair, it continues to resonate with readers across generations, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, light and humanity can prevail.

Immerse yourself in the riveting continuation of Victor Hugo''s monumental epic with "Les Misérables Volume III - Marius." This volume delves into the passionate and tumultuous life of Marius Pontmercy, weaving his personal story with the broader struggles of justice, love, and social upheaval in 19th-century France. In "Marius," readers are introduced to the idealistic and ardent young man, Marius Pontmercy, who is estranged from his royalist grandfather and harbors deep admiration for his late father, a decorated soldier of Napoleon''s army. His journey from a sheltered upbringing to the vibrant, revolutionary heart of Paris is both poignant and transformative. Marius''s burgeoning awareness of the harsh realities of society and his growing involvement in the revolutionary cause form the crux of his narrative. Amidst the political fervor, Marius encounters Cosette, the beautiful and innocent ward of Jean Valjean. Their love story blossoms in the shadow of impending revolution, providing a tender and hopeful counterpoint to the grim and gritty backdrop of Paris''s streets. Their romance is fraught with challenges and misunderstandings, yet it stands as a testament to the enduring power of love in the face of adversity. Victor Hugo''s vivid portrayal of the political and social landscape of Paris during this period adds depth and richness to the narrative. The depiction of the revolutionary group Les Amis de l''ABC, of which Marius becomes a passionate member, offers insight into the fervent idealism and desperate struggles of those who fought for freedom and equality. The preparations for the June Rebellion of 1832, with its heroic and tragic elements, are rendered with Hugo''s characteristic mastery of detail and emotion. In "Volume III - Marius," themes of love, sacrifice, and social justice are explored with unparalleled depth. Hugo''s exploration of Marius''s internal conflicts, his romantic devotion to Cosette, and his dedication to his revolutionary ideals create a complex and compelling character whose story resonates deeply with readers. The intertwining of personal and political struggles highlights the intricate and often painful connections between individual lives and broader societal currents. Perfect for lovers of classic literature, historical fiction, and tales of romance and revolution, "Les Misérables Volume III - Marius" continues the epic saga with heart and intensity. Dive into this gripping volume and experience the power of Victor Hugo''s storytelling as he brings to life the passions, dreams, and conflicts of a young man caught in the tide of history. Discover why "Les Misérables" remains a timeless masterpiece, with each volume offering a profound and moving exploration of the human spirit.

Introducing one of the most famous characters in literature, Jean Valjean - the noble peasant imprisoned for stealing a loaf of bread - Les Misérables ranks among the greatest novels of all time. In it, Victor Hugo takes readers deep into the Parisian underworld, immerses them in a battle between good and evil, and carries them to the barricades during the uprising of 1832 with a breathtaking realism that is unsurpassed in modern prose. Within his dramatic story are themes that capture the intellect and the emotions: crime and punishment, the relentless persecution of Valjean by Inspector Javert, the desperation of the prostitute Fantine, the amorality of the rogue Thénardier, and the universal desire to escape the prisons of our own minds. Les Misérables gave Victor Hugo a canvas upon which he portrayed his criticism of the French political and judicial systems, but the portrait that resulted is larger than life, epic in scope - an extravagant spectacle that dazzles the senses even as it touches the heart.Font used in this annotated edition is Baskerville - 9.

"Napoleon the Little" is a fascinating biographical analysis of the life and deeds of Napoleon III written by Victor Hugo. Napoleon I''s nephew imposed censorship and harsh repressive measures against his opponents, and many people - including Victor Hugo - went into voluntary exile. Hugo wrote this book as an attempt to awaken his fellow citizens to the dangers they faced under the tyranny of Napoleon III. It is a fascinating insight into the life of France''s longest-serving French head of state since the French Revolution and not to be missed by fans of Hugo''s work. Contents include: "December 20, 1848", "Mission of the Representatives", "Notice of Expiration of Term", "Men Will Awaken", "Biography", "Portrait", "In Continuation of the Panegyrics", "The Constitution", "The Senate", et cetera. Victor Marie Hugo (1802 - 1885) was a French novelist, dramatist, and poet belonging to the Romantic movement. He is widely hailed as one of the most accomplished and well-known French writers, originally achieving renown for his poetical endeavours-the most notable of which are the volumes "Les Contemplations" and "La Légende des siècles". Outside of his native country, Hugo''s best-known works are his novels: "Les Misérables" (1862) and "Notre-Dame de Paris" (1831). Many vintage books such as this are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. We are republishing this book now in an affordable, high-quality, modern edition complete with a specially commissioned new biography of the author.

In "The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Illustrated Edition)," Victor Hugo masterfully intertwines the themes of love, fate, and the quest for acceptance against the vibrant backdrop of medieval Paris. This richly illustrated edition enhances Hugo''s exquisite prose, further immersing readers in the evocative imagery of the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and its surrounding urban landscape. The narrative unfolds through the poignant lives of its tragic characters, such as the deformed bell-ringer Quasimodo and the beautiful Esmeralda, encapsulating the dichotomy between societal judgment and innate compassion while embracing the Romantic literary style that characterized Hugo''s work during the 19th century. Victor Hugo, a towering figure in French literature, was deeply influenced by his tumultuous surroundings, including the socio-political upheaval of his time, which instilled in him a profound empathy for the marginalized. His experiences as a political exile and his unwavering commitment to social justice resonate throughout "Hunchback," amplifying its themes of human dignity and compassion amidst societal neglect. An advocate for the downtrodden, Hugo''s own life journey shaped his narrative approach, lending authenticity and depth to the characters he crafted. This illustrated edition of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" is not only a captivating tale of love and tragedy but also a profound commentary on the human condition. I recommend this book to all readers who seek both aesthetic pleasure and meaningful reflection within literature, as it remains a timeless exploration of beauty, conflict, and redemption in contemporary society.

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This book is Les Miserables by Victor Hugo with translation by Isabel F. Hapgood and notes by Jim Coburn. The story is unabridged and is footnoted for the numerous unexplained places and events.

The Hunchback of Notre-Dame (French: Notre-Dame de Paris) is a French Romantic/Gothic novel by Victor Hugo, published in 1831. The original French title refers to Notre Dame Cathedral, on which the story is centered. English translator Frederic Shoberl named the novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame in 1833 because at the time, Gothic novels were more popular than Romance novels in England. The story is set in Paris, France in the Late Middle Ages, during the reign of Louis XI.