Smallness in a great man seems smaller by it's disproportion with all the rest

Smallness in a great man seems smaller by it's disproportion with all the rest

Victor Hugo, the renowned French writer, poet, and playwright, was a man of great stature in the literary world. His works, such as "Les Misérables" and "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame," have left an indelible mark on literature and continue to be celebrated and studied to this day. However, despite his immense talent and influence, Hugo was not without his flaws and shortcomings.

The quote, "Smallness in a great man seems smaller by its disproportion with all the rest," can be applied to Victor Hugo in various ways. On one hand, Hugo's greatness as a writer and thinker may have made his personal failings and character flaws appear more pronounced and glaring in comparison. For example, Hugo was known to have had numerous extramarital affairs and was often criticized for his political views and actions. These aspects of his life may have seemed even more egregious and disappointing given his status as a literary giant.

Additionally, Hugo's larger-than-life persona and reputation may have also contributed to the perception of his smallness in certain aspects. His immense talent and creativity set him apart from his contemporaries and made him a figure of admiration and reverence. However, this very greatness may have also made him seem distant, aloof, and unapproachable to those around him. In this sense, his smallness in terms of personal relationships and interactions may have been magnified by the stark contrast with his literary genius.

Despite his flaws and imperfections, Victor Hugo's legacy as a writer and thinker remains unparalleled. His works continue to inspire and captivate readers around the world, and his influence on literature and culture is undeniable. The quote, "Smallness in a great man seems smaller by its disproportion with all the rest," serves as a reminder that even the most towering figures in history are not immune to human frailty and shortcomings.