Victor Hugo

Victor Hugo was a French writer, poet, and public figure. He was born on February 26, 1802, in Besançon, France. He died on May 22, 1885, in Paris. Hugo wrote many kinds of texts, including novels, poems, plays, and essays. He is one of the most important writers in French literature. His works often describe people, cities, and events in France.

Victor Hugo grew up during a time of political change in France. His father was an officer in the French army. Hugo began writing poetry when he was young. As a teenager, he won prizes for his poems. In his early adult years, he became well known in literary circles. He later became a leading figure in Romanticism, a movement that focused on emotion, imagination, and individual experience.

Hugo wrote several famous novels. One of the best known is The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, published in 1831. This novel is set in Paris during the Middle Ages. It describes life around the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Another major novel is Les Misérables, published in 1862. This long novel tells the story of several characters over many years. It shows daily life, poverty, and social conditions in France.

In addition to writing, Victor Hugo was involved in public life. He served as a member of the French government. At times, his political views caused problems with rulers. Because of this, he lived in exile for many years. Exile means being forced to live outside one’s country. Hugo spent time on islands such as Guernsey, away from France. During this period, he continued to write.

Victor Hugo also wrote poetry throughout his life. His poems cover many topics, including nature, history, and personal feelings. He believed that writing should describe real people and real events. His style often used clear images and strong language. Many of his poems were published in large collections.

Victor Hugo returned to France later in life. When he died in 1885, many people attended his funeral in Paris. He was buried in the Panthéon, a building where France honors important people. Today, Victor Hugo is remembered as a major figure in French literature and culture.