Hugo and the Law

The "Hugo and the Law" international workshop will allow participants to dive into this author’s multifaceted conception of the law, encompassing both its theoretical foundations and its practical implications. Through an examination of Hugo’s literary corpus, the event will explore how the characters in his books grapple with the complexities of law and its impact on individuals and society, with particular emphasis on the moral dimension of the law. At the same time, the event will address Hugo’s critique of the legal machinery, shedding light on his observations regarding the potential for injustice and the abuse of power. This conversation will investigate the historical context in which Hugo lived and wrote, considering the political and social upheavals that influenced his views on the law. From the aftermath of the French Revolution to the establishment of the Second French Republic, through the rise and fall of the Empire of Napoleon III, until the experience of the Commune, Hugo’s observations of the evolving legal landscape are integral to understanding his perspective on the nature of power, the State and the foundations of Europe, and the condition of women. The workshop can be attended both in person and via Zoom, upon registration.