"Victor Hugo on Things That Matter" gives English speakers the social, historical, cultural, and biographical context essential to enjoying the writing and art of this genius of nineteenth-century France. The book's topical organization lets readers investigate Hugo's ideas about private, personal concerns - love, children, grief, nature, God - as well as public, politically important issues - liberty and democracy, tyranny, social justice, humanity, peace, and war.Unlike other Hugo anthologies, "Victor Hugo on Things That Matter" offers introductions and notes in English and includes twenty-five of Hugo's watercolours and drawings. Readers will find key Hugo texts in the original French, along with the following supplemental information in English: an overview of Hugo's importance and his private and public personas; introductions to each chapter; historical and cultural explanatory notes; a time line of Hugo's life and work; and opportunities for further reading.