Victor Hugo was a defining figure in Romantic literature and a key voice in the social and political movements of his time. His works, such as "Les Misérables" and "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame", highlighted the plight of the underprivileged and critiqued societal injustices. Hugo's themes often revolved around redemption, freedom, and love, reflecting his deep humanitarian beliefs. Additionally, his involvement in politics and advocacy for social reform underscored his commitment to improving the human condition, leaving a lasting legacy in both literature and social thought.