The Man Who Laughs

Summary

The novel «The Man Who Laughs» by Victor Hugo tells the tragic story of Gwynplaine, a boy who was kidnapped and disfigured in childhood, leaving his face in a perpetual smile. Gwynplaine becomes a traveling performer and finds a family in the blind girl Dea and the old philosopher Ursus. Despite his appearance, Gwynplaine possesses a kind heart and a deep intellect. Fate leads him to unexpected discoveries about his origins and inheritance, forcing him to choose between personal happiness and duty to society. The novel explores themes of social injustice, human dignity, and the tragedy hidden behind a mask of laughter.

Main Ideas

• Critique of social injustice and inequality. Victor Hugo illustrates how society is cruel and unfair to those who differ from the norm, and how social classes influence people's destinies.
• The theme of fate and predestination. The fate of the main character, Gwynplaine, is determined by his appearance, and he must struggle against the prejudice and cruelty of those around him.
• Love and self-sacrifice. The book portrays deep feelings and self-sacrifice, especially in the relationships between Gwynplaine and Dea, as well as between Gwynplaine and Ursus.
• Critique of power and aristocracy. Hugo condemns the corruption and heartlessness of the aristocracy, which uses its power to oppress and exploit ordinary people.
• Human dignity and inner beauty. Despite physical deformities, Gwynplaine possesses inner beauty and dignity, contrasting with the external glamour and emptiness of the aristocrats.

Historical Context and Significance

Victor Hugo's novel «The Man Who Laughs», published in 1869, is an important work of 19th-century French literature. The book explores themes of social injustice, human suffering, and moral deformity, embodied in the character of Gwynplaine, whose face was disfigured in childhood to make him always appear to be laughing. Hugo uses this image to critique society, showing how a person's appearance can determine their fate and how others perceive them. The novel has had a significant impact on literature and art, inspiring numerous adaptations, including theatrical productions and films. It also influenced the creation of the Joker character in Batman comics. The book remains relevant, raising questions about humanity, equality, and social justice.

Main Characters and Their Development

• Gwynplaine - the main character of the novel, a man with a disfigured face permanently set in a smile. His face was disfigured in childhood by the Comprachicos so he could perform in the circus and amuse audiences. Despite his appearance, Gwynplaine has a kind heart and noble soul. Throughout the novel, he journeys from a circus performer to a member of parliament, confronting the injustice and cruelty of society.
• Dea - a blind girl who was found alongside Gwynplaine. She does not see his deformity and loves him for his inner qualities. Dea symbolizes purity and innocence. Throughout the novel, she remains loyal and devoted to Gwynplaine despite all hardships.
• Ursus - a philosopher and circus performer who takes care of Gwynplaine and Dea. He is a wise and kind man who tries to protect his wards from the world's cruelty. Ursus serves as a mentor and protector, and his philosophical reflections and wit add depth to the novel.
• Josiana - a duchess who feels a strange attraction to Gwynplaine. She symbolizes the depravity and corruption of the aristocracy. Throughout the novel, her attitude towards Gwynplaine shifts from curiosity and mockery to genuine interest, but ultimately she remains true to her selfish desires.
• Barkilphedro - a court intriguer who seeks to use Gwynplaine for his own purposes. He embodies cunning and ambition, willing to do anything to achieve his goals. His actions lead to tragic consequences for the main characters.

Style and Technique

Victor Hugo's novel «The Man Who Laughs» is characterized by rich and expressive language, filled with metaphors and symbols. Hugo employs complex syntactic structures and archaisms, giving the text a special solemnity and depth. The author masterfully combines elements of romanticism and realism, creating vivid and memorable images. Literary devices such as contrast, hyperbole, and irony help convey drama and emotional tension. The structure of the novel includes numerous inserted episodes and digressions that enrich the main plot and allow a deeper understanding of the characters' inner worlds. Hugo also addresses social and philosophical questions, making the work multilayered and meaningful.

Interesting Facts

• The main character of the novel, Gwynplaine, was disfigured in childhood so that his face would always express a smile. This was done by a criminal group known as the 'Comprachicos'.
• The novel raises important social themes such as injustice, inequality, and society's cruelty towards people with physical disabilities.
• Victor Hugo used the image of Gwynplaine to show the contrast between a person's external and internal world, as well as to critique a society that judges people by their appearance.
• Gwynplaine's story inspired the creation of the Joker, one of the most famous villains in Batman comics.
• The novel was written during Victor Hugo's exile on the island of Guernsey, where he spent 15 years.

Book Review

«The Man Who Laughs» by Victor Hugo is a profound and multilayered novel that explores themes of social injustice, human cruelty, and inner strength of spirit. The main character, Gwynplaine, with his disfigured face, symbolizes the suffering and humiliation experienced by those marginalized by society. Critics praise Hugo's skill in creating vivid and memorable characters, as well as his ability to blend realism with romantic elements. The novel also stands out for its social critique aimed at the aristocracy and the hypocrisy of society. Despite its dark themes, the work is filled with humanism and faith in human kindness.