Which French author wrote The Hunchback of Notre Dame?

Victor Hugo.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame, known originally in French as “Notre-Dame de Paris,” is a novel written by the renowned French author Victor Hugo. Born on February 26, 1802, in Besançon, France, and dying on May 22, 1885, in Paris, Hugo is considered one of the greatest and most celebrated French writers of the 19th century.

Victor Hugo was not only a novelist but also a poet, playwright, and political activist. His writings spanned various genres and themes, but he is often associated with Romanticism, a literary and artistic movement that emphasized individualism, emotion, and nature. Hugo’s works frequently tackled social issues and injustices of his time, showcasing his profound humanitarian spirit.

“Notre-Dame de Paris” was first published in 1831. The novel is set in medieval Paris and revolves around the Gothic cathedral of Notre-Dame. The story intertwines the fates of several characters, including the deformed bell-ringer Quasimodo, the beautiful gypsy Esmeralda, and the obsessive archdeacon Claude Frollo. Through their interconnected stories, Hugo delves deep into the societal structure of Paris in the 15th century, examining themes of love, jealousy, betrayal, and societal marginalization.

One of the unique aspects of the novel is Hugo’s detailed depiction of Notre-Dame Cathedral itself. The structure almost becomes a character in its own right, symbolizing the grandeur and decay of both medieval architecture and society. Hugo’s evocative portrayal of the cathedral was instrumental in raising awareness about the state of neglect and disrepair it had fallen into by the 19th century. The novel’s popularity played a role in galvanizing efforts to renovate and preserve the iconic monument.

Beyond “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” Victor Hugo penned numerous other influential works, including “Les Misérables,” a sprawling epic that similarly addresses societal issues, justice, and redemption. His vast literary contributions have solidified his legacy as a monumental figure in world literature.