Victor Hugo's William Shakespeare is a strange and wonderful creature. Don't go in expecting a straightforward life story. Instead, Hugo uses Shakespeare as a launching pad for a sweeping, passionate argument about art, genius, and the role of the creative spirit in human history. The 'plot' is the journey of Hugo's own mind as he explores Shakespeare's works, placing him among other great artists and thinkers.

The Story

Think of it less as a story and more as a grand tour led by a brilliant, slightly unhinged guide. Hugo doesn't just analyze plays like King Lear or The Tempest; he uses them to build a monument. He argues that figures like Shakespeare are 'geniuses' in the truest sense—forces of nature who reveal profound truths about humanity. The book is Hugo's attempt to define that electric, untamable power and champion its necessity in a modern, industrializing world.

Why You Should Read It

You read this for Hugo's voice. It's fiery, personal, and packed with startling insights that make you see Shakespeare's familiar words in a new light. It feels like listening in on a great mind thinking out loud. Hugo isn't a detached scholar; he's a fellow artist in awe, trying to measure his own work against the ultimate standard. His passion is contagious. You come away not just thinking about Shakespeare, but about what it means to create anything at all.

Final Verdict

Perfect for Shakespeare enthusiasts who want a bold, nineteenth-century perspective on the Bard, or for fans of Victor Hugo curious about his critical mind. It's also great for anyone who loves big, idea-driven books that read like a spirited conversation. If you prefer strict biographies, this might frustrate you. But if you want to watch one genius try to comprehend another, it's a thrilling and unique ride.