The Man Who Laughs by Victor Hugo
A Romance of English History
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 9546th greatest book of all time
- Published
- 1869
- Nationality
- French
- Length
- Long
- Pages
- 400-700
- Original Language
- French
- Avg User Rating
-
(4.2)
- Alternate Titles
-
- Gülən Adam
- L'Homme qui rit
- L’homme Qui Rit
- The Laughing Man
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This book is on the following 2 lists:
- 101st on The 500 best books of all time from Culture Café users (Culture Café)
- 6552nd on Our Users' Honorable Mention Favorite Books of All Time (The Greatest Books Users)