40 Facts About Victor Hugo

Early Life and Family

Victor Hugo, one of France's most celebrated writers, had a fascinating early life that shaped his literary genius.

1. 01Born on February 26, 1802, in Besançon, France, Hugo was the youngest of three sons.
2. 02His father, Léopold Hugo, was a high-ranking officer in Napoleon's army, which meant the family moved frequently.
3. 03His mother, Sophie Trébuchet, was a staunch royalist, creating a politically diverse household.
4. 04Hugo's parents separated when he was young, and he was primarily raised by his mother in Paris.
5. 05Despite the separation, Hugo maintained a close relationship with his father, who influenced his early interest in politics and history.

Literary Beginnings

Hugo's journey into literature began at an early age, showcasing his prodigious talent.

6. 06At age 14, Hugo won his first literary prize in a poetry contest.
7. 07By 17, he had published his first collection of poetry, "Odes et poésies diverses," which earned him a royal pension from Louis XVIII.
8. 08Hugo's first novel, "Han d'Islande," was published in 1823 when he was just 21 years old.
9. 09His early works were heavily influenced by the Romantic movement, which emphasized emotion and individualism.
10. 10Hugo founded the literary magazine "Le Conservateur littéraire" with his brothers in 1819, providing a platform for his early works.

Major Works

Hugo's major works have left an indelible mark on literature and continue to be celebrated worldwide.

11. 11"The Hunchback of Notre-Dame," published in 1831, brought Hugo international fame and highlighted the plight of the marginalized.
12. 12"Les Misérables," published in 1862, is considered one of the greatest novels of the 19th century, exploring themes of justice, love, and redemption.
13. 13Hugo wrote "Les Misérables" while in exile on the Channel Islands, where he lived for nearly 20 years.
14. 14His play "Hernani," premiered in 1830, sparked a riot at its first performance due to its break from classical traditions.
15. 15Hugo's poetry collections, such as "Les Contemplations" and "La Légende des siècles," are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and depth.

Political Activism

Hugo was not just a writer; he was also a passionate political activist who used his voice to advocate for social change.

16. 16Elected to the French National Assembly in 1848, Hugo initially supported the Republic but later became a vocal critic of Napoleon III.
17. 17Hugo's opposition to Napoleon III's coup d'état in 1851 led to his exile from France.
18. 18During his exile, Hugo wrote several political pamphlets condemning the regime, including "Napoléon le Petit."
19. 19He returned to France in 1870 after the fall of the Second Empire and continued to be an influential political figure.
20. 20Hugo was a staunch advocate for the abolition of the death penalty, a theme that appears frequently in his works.

Personal Life and Relationships

Hugo's personal life was as dramatic and complex as his literary creations.

21. 21He married Adèle Foucher in 1822, a childhood friend, and they had five children together.
22. 22Hugo had numerous affairs throughout his marriage, most notably with actress Juliette Drouet, who became his lifelong companion.
23. 23His eldest daughter, Léopoldine, tragically drowned in 1843, a loss that deeply affected Hugo and influenced his writing.
24. 24Hugo's relationship with his wife became strained over the years, and they lived separately for much of their later lives.
25. 25Despite his personal turmoil, Hugo remained devoted to his family and provided for them throughout his life.

Later Years and Legacy

Hugo's later years were marked by continued literary success and a lasting legacy that endures to this day.

26. 26He was celebrated as a national hero upon his return to France, with thousands attending his public appearances.
27. 27Hugo continued to write prolifically in his later years, producing works such as "Ninety-Three" and "The Man Who Laughs."
28. 28He was a member of the Académie Française, an esteemed institution dedicated to preserving the French language.
29. 29Hugo's 80th birthday in 1882 was a national event, with parades and celebrations held in his honor.
30. 30He died on May 22, 1885, at the age of 83, and his funeral was attended by over two million people.

Fun Facts

Beyond his literary and political achievements, Hugo's life was filled with interesting and quirky facts.

31. 31Hugo was a talented artist and produced over 4,000 drawings during his lifetime.
32. 32He had a pet cat named Chanoine, who often kept him company while he wrote.
33. 33Hugo was known for his eccentric habits, such as writing while standing and using a bathtub as a desk.
34. 34He once locked away all his clothes to force himself to stay home and finish "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame."
35. 35Hugo's home on the Channel Island of Guernsey, Hauteville House, is now a museum dedicated to his life and work.

Influence and Adaptations

Hugo's influence extends beyond literature, with his works inspiring countless adaptations and interpretations.

36. 36"Les Misérables" has been adapted into numerous films, television series, and one of the longest-running musicals in history.
37. 37"The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" has inspired several films, including Disney's animated version in 1996.
38. 38Hugo's works have been translated into multiple languages, making him one of the most widely read authors in the world.
39. 39His themes of social justice, human rights, and the struggle for freedom continue to resonate with audiences today.
40. 40Hugo's influence can be seen in the works of later writers, such as Charles Dickens and Fyodor Dostoevsky, who admired his ability to blend social commentary with compelling storytelling.

The Legacy of Victor Hugo

Victor Hugo's life was a whirlwind of creativity, passion, and activism. He wasn't just a writer; he was a force of nature who used his talents to champion social causes. From his iconic novels like "Les Misérables" and "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" to his powerful poetry, Hugo's work continues to resonate. His influence extends beyond literature, impacting politics and human rights.

Hugo's dedication to justice and equality remains inspiring. His stories, filled with complex characters and moral dilemmas, encourage readers to reflect on their own values. Even today, his works are adapted into films, musicals, and plays, proving their timeless appeal.

Victor Hugo's legacy is a testament to the power of words to inspire change. His life and work remind us that literature can be a catalyst for social progress, making the world a better place.