Victor Hugo

"Victor Hugo" by Algernon Charles Swinburne is a biographical study written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the life and literary contributions of Victor Hugo, one of France's most revered poets, novelists, and playwrights. The text reflects on Hugo's vast body of work while positioning him as a transformative figure in literature and society, detailing both his poetic genius and his passionate advocacy for social justice. The opening of this biographical account sets the stage by contrasting the public response to the deaths of two great literary figures: Shakespeare and Hugo. Swinburne passionately describes how the world mourned Hugo's passing in 1885, highlighting his role as not only a poet but also a healer and champion for the downtrodden. The text introduces Hugo’s early life, revealing his precocious talent in poetry and drama while indicating the breadth and depth of his creative output, including significant works like "Cromwell" and "Notre-Dame de Paris." As Swinburne elaborates on Hugo's character and contributions, the reader gains an understanding of the profound influence he wielded as a literary figure and social advocate in the 19th century.