The Man Who Laughs by Victor Hugo
Set in 17th-century England, the novel follows the life of a disfigured boy, abandoned as a child on a winter's night, who is taken in and raised by a kind-hearted showman. The boy grows up to become a popular performer due to his permanent grin, a result of a cruel mutilation inflicted by a group of comprachicos. His life is marked by a series of dramatic turns, including love, nobility, and political intrigue. As he navigates a society that is both repulsed by his appearance and captivated by his entertainment, the narrative delves into themes of inner beauty, the nature of humanity, and the corrupting influence of wealth and power.
The 5120th greatest book of all time
- Published
- 1869
- Nationality
- French
- Type
- Fiction
- Pages
- 400-700
- Words
- 183,833
- Original Language
- French
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This book is on the following lists:
- 101st on The 500 best books of all time from Culture Café users (Culture Café)