Pronunciation: [vˈɪktə hjˈuːɡə͡ʊ] (IPA) 
Victor Hugo is a French writer and poet, known for his works such as Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre-Dame. The spelling of his name in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /viktɔʁ yɡo/. The first syllable "vik" is pronounced with a short "i" sound as in "pick". The "oʁ" in his last name is pronounced with a rounded "o" sound, similar to "or". The "go" is pronounced with a hard "g" sound, as in "game".
Victor Hugo (1802-1885) was a celebrated French author, poet, and playwright. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in French literature and is considered a prominent representative of the Romantic movement. Hugo's works, spanning various genres, are characterized by their rich and vivid descriptions, profound social commentary, and exploration of human passions and emotions.
Born in Besançon, France, Hugo first gained recognition with his poetry collections, which showcased his lyrical and evocative writing style. He expanded his repertoire to include novels, plays, essays, and literary criticism, earning him great acclaim and establishing him as a prominent literary figure of his time.
Hugo's most renowned novels include "Les Misérables" and "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame." "Les Misérables," published in 1862, paints a poignant portrait of social inequality and injustice in post-revolutionary France, interweaving the lives of various characters and their struggles against the backdrop of political unrest. "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" (1831), set in medieval Paris, is a tragic tale of love, obsession, and societal prejudice.
Moreover, Hugo's works were not limited to literature; he was also involved in politics and championed causes such as freedom of speech, democracy, and social justice. His commitment to human rights and political activism further solidified his reputation as an influential and progressive thinker.
Victor Hugo's legacy continues to captivate readers worldwide, as his works remain widely read and studied, inspiring numerous adaptations in film, theater, and music. His ability to merge imaginative storytelling with powerful moral and social critiques has made him an enduring icon in French and global literary history.
