Victor Hugo, born Victor-Marie Hugo on February 26, 1802, in Besançon, France, stands as one of the most significant figures in French literature and a key exponent of the Romantic movement. His life spanned a tumultuous period in French history, witnessing the rise and fall of empires and revolutions. Hugo passed away on May 22, 1885, in Paris, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate in literature and beyond.

Hugo’s early life was marked by the upheaval of the Napoleonic Wars, as his father served as an officer in Napoleon's army. This unstable environment influenced his formative years, fostering his deep sense of social justice and empathy for the human condition. He began writing poetry at a young age and published his first collection, "Odes et Ballades," in 1822, gaining immediate recognition.

As a literary figure, Hugo's career flourished with notable works that spanned poetry, novels, and plays. His masterpiece, "Les Misérables," published in 1862, explored themes of redemption and social injustice, while "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame," released in 1831, showcased his skill in weaving historical narrative with poignant character studies. These works not only captivated readers but also influenced social thought in France and beyond.

Hugo's personal life was marked by both tragedy and triumph. He experienced profound loss with the death of his daughter, Léopoldine, which deeply affected his writing. Despite these hardships, he remained a passionate advocate for social reform, championing causes such as the abolition of capital punishment and advocating for the rights of the impoverished. Through his powerful words and unwavering commitment to justice, Victor Hugo remains a towering figure whose contributions to literature and society are immortalized in the annals of history.