The Man Who Laughs: A Romance of English History

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

12587

Title

The Man Who Laughs: A Romance of English History

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Victor Hugo's dark romance follows Gwynplaine, a man surgically altered to smile permanently, and his blind companion Dea. Set against the turbulent backdrop of 17th-century England, the narrative explores themes of misanthropy, social injustice, and the cruelty of fate as political intrigue and personal tragedy collide.

Summary up to 500 words

Victor Hugo's *The Man Who Laughs* is a profound romance of English history that intertwines personal tragedy with social critique. The narrative centers on Gwynplaine, a man born with a grotesque, permanent smile, and his blind wife, Dea. They are accompanied by Ursus, a misanthropic juggler, ventriloquist, and doctor, and his wolf companion, Homo. Ursus, a man of immense learning and superstition, raises Gwynplaine and Dea, teaching them to find joy despite their deformity and blindness. Their lives are initially defined by a simple, loving existence on the road, supported by Ursus's various talents and the wolf's gentle nature. The plot intensifies with the arrival of Barkilphedro, a villainous courtier who plots against Gwynplaine's fiancée, Josiana. A pivotal moment occurs when a message in a bottle, lost at sea for fifteen years, washes ashore. It reveals Gwynplaine's true noble lineage, restoring his title and wealth. This revelation shatters Josiana's world, as she is left with a monster, while Barkilphedro seizes the opportunity to exact his vengeance. He manipulates the situation, arranging for Gwynplaine to be arrested and taken to the torture cell of Southwark, intending to destroy Josiana's happiness. Despite the political machinations and the looming threat of torture, the emotional core remains the love between Gwynplaine and Dea. However, Dea succumbs to a sudden illness. In her final moments, she expresses her love and fear of separation, urging Gwynplaine to remember her. Consumed by grief and a sense of cosmic injustice, Gwynplaine makes a final act of defiance against his cruel fate. Walking calmly to the edge of the ship, he leaps into the sea, leaving Ursus and Homo to mourn their lost friend. The novel concludes with Ursus reflecting on the nature of fate, justice, and the enduring power of love amidst the ruins of human ambition and societal cruelty.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Historical Fiction
• Great Britain -- History -- Fiction