« The Man Who Laughs, » written by Victor Hugo and published in 1869, tells the story of Gwynplaine, a young boy who is disfigured as a child by the cruel Comprachicos, a group of criminals who mutilate children to make them into circus freaks. Gwynplaine is left with a permanent grin carved into his face, giving him a grotesque appearance.
Abandoned and alone, Gwynplaine is taken in by a kind-hearted showman named Ursus, who raises him alongside a blind baby girl named Dea. Gwynplaine grows up to become a performer, known as « The Laughing Man, » showcasing his deformed face to audiences for their amusement.
As Gwynplaine navigates the challenges of his unusual appearance and the complexities of his relationships with Ursus and Dea, he becomes embroiled in political intrigue and romantic entanglements. His true identity is revealed, leading to dramatic consequences and revelations about his past.
Through the character of Gwynplaine, Hugo explores themes of social injustice, identity, and the nature of beauty. « The Man Who Laughs » is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that delves into the depths of human suffering and resilience.