VICTOR HUGO

(1802-1885)

Bust on a pedestal in resin

 
During the period from 1817 to 1830, Victor Hugo is a young and talented poet as well as monarchist. The political events of 1830 combined with his material problems lead up to a profound change in Hugo’s ideas as well as his artistic sensibilities. During this period, the author is increasingly regarded as the leader of the romantic movement. Collections of poetry, plays and novels follow rapidly one upon another. Only the death of his daughter Leopoldine and his semi-official at the Court of Louis-Philippe deter the creative flow of new works for a short time.
However, the political and social events of 1848 in conjunction with the suffering of the average man convert Hugo to the Republican cause. Hugo’s open hostility toward Napoleon III results in his being exiled in 1852. During this time of exile on the Islands of Jersey and the Guernesey, the writer composes the richest and most personal part of his works.
Returning to France in 1870, Victor Hugo becomes an official personality and symbol of the Republic resistance to the Empire. Deputy of Paris and then Senator, he is recognised as the most prestigious author of his century.