ABOUT THIS BOOK
The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, written by Victor Hugo and first published in 1831, is a classic
French Gothic novel that takes place in fifteenth-century Paris. The story revolves around the lives
of several characters, including the deformed bell-ringer Quasimodo, the beautiful Gypsy Esmeralda,
the manipulative Archdeacon Claude Frollo and the dashing soldier Phoebus de Chateaupers. The
novel masterfully weaves their intertwining stories against the backdrop of the imposing Notre-Dame
Cathedral, which plays a central role in the narrative.
AUTHOR OF THE BOOK
Victor Hugo (1802–1885) was a renowned French author, poet and playwright, who is best remembered
for his classic novels Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre-Dame. Born in Besançon, France,
Hugo was a central figure in the Romantic literary movement and used his writing to address social
and political issues of his time.
Hugo began his writing career as a poet, publishing his first collection of poetry, Odes et poésies
diverses, at the age of 20. His early success in poetry led to his appointment to the prestigious
Académie française in 1841. Over time, Hugo’s focus shifted to prose and drama, and he established
himself as a prominent playwright with works like Hernani (1830) and Ruy Blas (1838).
Victor Hugo’s literary legacy is vast and enduring, as his works continue to be celebrated for their
powerful narratives, memorable characters and important social and political themes. His novels
have been translated into numerous languages and adapted into countless films, television series
and stage productions, ensuring that his stories continue to captivate audiences around the world.
