Books Like...
'The Man Who Laughs' by Victor Hugo is a compelling and horrifying tale set in 17th century England, following the tragic story of Gwynplaine, a disfigured boy condemned to exhibit himself for the amusement of the public. The novel delves into themes of love, injustice, and the impact of societal classes on individuals' lives. Through Hugo's majestic prose, the reader is taken on a journey filled with vivid characters, intricate plot twists, and a universal message against the cruelty of the aristocracy.
The book explores the struggles faced by the main characters, Gwynplaine and Dea, as they navigate a world filled with deception, betrayal, and unexpected turns of fate. Hugo's writing style weaves together elements of romance, thriller, and manifesto, creating a multifaceted narrative that captivates readers with its emotional depth and thought-provoking themes.
If you liked The Man Who Laughs, here are the top 50 books to read next:
- #1
'The Toilers of the Sea' by Victor Hugo is a bittersweet tale that follows the protagonist Gilliatt as he undergoes mythical trials akin to those of Odysseus. The story revolves around Gilliatt's Herculean task of salvaging a steam engine from a dangerous reef to win the heart of the woman he loves. Set in the Channel Islands, the novel is a blend of epic drama, satiric wit, and an exploration of human nature, all wrapped in Hugo's impeccable prose. Despite some drawbacks like perfunctory characterizations and predictable storylines, the book is a love letter to the isle of Guernsey and showcases Hugo's talent for storytelling and observation of the natural world.
It happened that Gilliatt was once caught with blood issuing from his nose. The circumstances appeared grave. The master of a barque who had sailed almost entirely round the world, affirmed that among... - #2
Ninety-Three by Victor Hugo is a historical fiction novel set during the French Revolution in the year 1793. The story follows three protagonists - the noble royalist Marquis de Lantenac, the republican Gauvain, and the former priest Cimourdain - through a tumultuous year marked by executions, revolutions, and conflicts of values. Hugo's writing style is described as rich, epic, and filled with vivid descriptions of battles, political struggles, and moral dilemmas.
- #3
'The Hunchback of Notre-Dame' by Victor Hugo is a classic tale set in 14th century Paris, focusing on the tragic story of Quasimodo, a deformed bell ringer hidden in the bell towers of Notre Dame Cathedral by Dom Claude Frollo. The narrative delves into themes of unrequited love, societal prejudices, and power dynamics. Hugo intricately weaves historical details of Paris, the architecture of Notre Dame, and a study of Parisian society into the storyline, providing a rich backdrop to the characters and their interactions. The novel explores the complexities of human nature, with characters like Quasimodo, Esmeralda, and Claude Frollo portrayed in a believable and compelling manner.
The writing style of Victor Hugo in 'The Hunchback of Notre-Dame' has been described as dense and detailed, with lengthy digressions into historical and architectural descriptions. While some readers found these tangents slow and tedious, others appreciated the depth they added to the narrative. The novel offers a mix of tragedy, dark humor, and thought-provoking commentary on themes such as love, obsession, and societal norms, making it a complex and engaging read that goes beyond the surface level of a conventional love story.
Three hundred and forty-eight years, six months, and nineteen days ago today the Parisians were awakened by the sound of loud peals from all the bells within the triple precincts of the City, the Univ... - #4
The Last Day of a Condemned Man by Victor Hugo is a short but psychologically powerful novel that delves into the inner thoughts of a man awaiting his execution via the guillotine in 19th century France. The book focuses on the condemned man's psychological journey as he grapples with impending death, the haunting memories of his past, and the societal attitudes towards capital punishment. Through a first-person diary format, Hugo skillfully portrays the emotional turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by the protagonist in his final moments.
Hugo's writing style in The Last Day of a Condemned Man is poignant and thought-provoking, offering a stark critique of the death penalty while highlighting the humanity of the condemned man. The novel explores themes of guilt, redemption, societal injustice, and the complex emotions surrounding mortality. Despite being published anonymously in 1829, the book remains relevant with its powerful portrayal of the psychological impact of impending death and its timeless plea for compassion and empathy towards those facing the ultimate punishment.
Once, and it seems as if it were years and not weeks ago, I was like other men. Each day, each hour, each moment, was full. My mind was young and active, and it delighted in fancies. One after another... - #5
- #6
'Scaramouche' by Rafael Sabatini is a swashbuckling tale set during the French Revolution, following the life of the protagonist, Andre Louis Moreau. After his friend is killed in a duel by an aristocrat, Andre seeks revenge and embarks on a journey that leads him to become an actor, a fencing master, a politician, and a revolutionary. The book is filled with adventure, romance, political intrigue, and historical events, providing a vivid portrayal of Revolutionary France. The writing style is described as clever, engaging, and fast-paced, with witty dialogue and a complex protagonist that evolves throughout the story.
HE WAS born with a gift of laughter and a sense that the world was mad. And that was all his patrimony. His very paternity was obscure, although the village of Gavrillac had long since dispelled the c... - #7
'McTeague' by Frank Norris is a novel set in turn of the century San Francisco, focusing on the life of McTeague, a slow-witted dentist, his wife Trina, and their mutual friend Marcus. The story revolves around a love triangle, financial windfalls, greed, and the descent into madness of the characters. The plot is driven by themes of money, mistrust, and societal pressures, leading to a brutal outcome. Norris's writing style is characterized as American naturalism, with a focus on realistic portrayals of characters and their struggles in a gritty, poverty-stricken environment.
It was Sunday, and, according to his custom on that day, McTeague took his dinner at two in the afternoon at the car conductors’ coffee-joint on Polk Street. He had a thick gray soup; heavy, underdone... - #8
Les Miserables by Victor Hugo is a sprawling masterpiece that delves into the themes of redemption, true love, human nature, and social inequalities in 19th century France. The novel follows the convict Jean Valjean on his quest for redemption against the backdrop of poverty and a harsh penal system. Through intricate storytelling and detailed descriptions, Hugo weaves together the lives of a diverse cast of characters, providing a rich tapestry of human experiences.
If only for the sake of being accurate in every particular, although this circumstance in no way impinges on the basic substance of what we are about to relate, it may be worth mentioning here the rum... - #9
'Twenty Years After' by Alexandre Dumas is a gripping sequel to 'The Three Musketeers', following the lives of D'Artagnan, Athos, Porthos, and Aramis two decades later. The book delves into court politics, historical events such as the trial and execution of King Charles I, and the adventures of the musketeers as they navigate political intrigue and maintain their bond amidst conflicts and challenges. Dumas' writing style is described as clear, accessible, and filled with historical accuracy, providing insight into character motivations and societal divisions while delivering a fast-paced and engaging narrative.
In a splendid chamber of the Palais Royal, formerly styled the Palais Cardinal, a man was sitting in deep reverie, his head supported on his hands, leaning over a gilt and inlaid table which was cover...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Three Musketeers / d'Artagnan Romances ) - #10
Victor Hugo's 'Notre-Dame de Paris' is a Gothic Romance set in mediæval Paris, revolving around the lives of characters like Quasimodo, Esmeralda, Claude Frollo, and Pierre Gringoire. The book delves into themes of love, jealousy, tragedy, and societal complexities, with a focus on the architecture of Paris and the historical context of the city. Hugo's writing style combines intricate storytelling with detailed descriptions of the city, creating a vivid and immersive reading experience that transports readers to the heart of Paris in the 15th century.
Three hundred and forty-eight years, six months, and nineteen days ago to-day, the Parisians awoke to the sound of all the bells in the triple circuit of the city, the university, and the town ringing...