Notre-Dame de Paris

Notre-Dame de Paris (1831), also known as The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, by Victor Hugo is a historical novel set in 15th-century Paris. At its center is the cathedral of Notre-Dame, which serves as both the backdrop and a symbol of enduring beauty and suffering.

The story follows Quasimodo, the deformed but kind-hearted bell-ringer of the cathedral, who is fiercely loyal to the beautiful Romani girl Esmeralda. She, however, is desired by multiple men: the sinister archdeacon Claude Frollo, who is torn between lust and faith; the vain soldier Phoebus, whom she loves; and Quasimodo, who silently protects her.

Tragedy unfolds as Frollo's obsession leads to betrayal, false accusations, and ultimately Esmeralda's execution. Quasimodo avenges her by killing Frollo but is left heartbroken. The novel closes with his death beside Esmeralda's body.

The book blends romance, tragedy, and social critique, highlighting themes of love, obsession, justice, and the clash between human frailty and monumental history.