Publication of The Man Who Laughs

Victor Hugo's novel, _L'Homme Qui Rit_ (_The Man Who Laughs_), was published in 1869 and serves as a critical examination of the aristocracy. The narrative follows the life of Gwynplaine, a boy disfigured by a cruel act, who becomes a symbol of the suffering inflicted by social injustices. Through this character, Hugo explores themes of identity, societal norms, and the impact of class disparity. The novel reflects Hugo's concerns about the widening gap between the elite and the common people, a recurring theme in his works. Despite its ambitious scope and social commentary, _The Man Who Laughs_ did not achieve the same level of success as Hugo's earlier novels, such as _Les Misérables_. This decline in popularity marked a shift in the literary landscape, as contemporary authors like Gustave Flaubert and Émile Zola began to dominate with their realist and naturalist approaches, which resonated more with the changing tastes of the readership. Hugo's struggle to maintain relevance in this evolving literary environment highlighted the challenges faced by established authors in adapting to new narrative styles and themes that were emerging at the time.