Victor Hugo's writing is some of the best and most beautiful ever produced; this anonymous translation of his hard-to-find The Man Who Laughs shows Hugo's wonderful use of language to tell a heartbreaking story. While it is not as well known as Les Miserable or The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Man Who Laughs remains a classic story worth reading.
Exploring the psychological turmoil of a man facing execution, the narrative delves into his introspection as he contemplates his life and impending death. Through poignant reflections and interactions with a priest and fellow inmates, the unnamed narrator confronts existential themes of humanity and justice. Victor Hugo's powerful prose challenges readers to empathize with the condemned, prompting a deeper examination of their own lives. This edition revitalizes a classic work, highlighting Hugo's enduring influence on literature and his stance against the death penalty.