Victor Hugo: His Life and Work is a biographical account of the celebrated French writer, chronicling his personal journey from a troubled childhood to becoming one of the foremost figures in Romantic literature. The narrative details his early struggles with health and family relationships, which significantly shaped his character and literary aspirations. The book explores Hugo’s accomplishments across poetry, novels, and drama, highlighting the profound impact of his works on French literature and society. The author delves into the historical context, from the grandeur of France under Napoleon to Hugo's birth, emphasizing the familial and environmental influences that would fuel his creative genius. Through the exploration of Hugo's life, the book also sheds light on his role as a social activist and the challenges he faced in his career. His works, infused with personal experiences, are examined in relation to the societal issues of his time, offering readers a deeper understanding of the man behind the iconic literature.
George Barnett Smith was an English author and journalist, born on 17 May 1841 in Ovenden, Yorkshire, to Titus and Mary Smith. He was educated at the British Lancastrian school in Halifax before moving to London to pursue a career in journalism. From 1865 to 1868, Smith worked on the editorial staff of The Globe, then continued his work at The Echo until 1876. His contributions to major magazines like the Edinburgh Review and Fortnightly Review reflected his literary ambitions. Smith was also a key contributor to The Times. In 1889, due to health problems, particularly lung issues, he moved to Bournemouth, where he spent the remainder of his life as an invalid. Despite his declining health, Smith continued writing and was awarded a civil list pension by the Conservative government in 1891, which was later increased by the Liberal government in 1906. He passed away on 2 January 1909 and was buried in Bournemouth. Smith is best known for his biographies of famous figures, including Percy Bysshe Shelley, W. E. Gladstone, John Bright, Queen Victoria, and Victor Hugo. His two-volume History of the English Parliament (1892) was his most ambitious work.
![Truth [Verite] Book I](http://www.double9books.com/cdn/shop/files/9789368098935_300179e1-8196-45a7-a5e3-156d28267b73.jpg?v=1742824179&width=200)
