“Great perils have this beauty, that they bring to light the fraternity of strangers.”
- February 26, 1802 – May 22, 1885
- Born in France
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels and poems such as “Les Miserables” and “Notre-Dame de Paris,” he was a representative figure of French Romantic literature and had a worldwide influence.
Quote
“Great perils have this beauty, that they bring to light the fraternity of strangers.”
Explanation
Victor Hugo’s quote suggests that in times of great danger or crisis, human beings are often able to rise above their differences and come together, forming bonds of solidarity and brotherhood. The “fraternity of strangers” refers to the way people, who might otherwise be disconnected or even indifferent to one another, find common purpose and compassion in the face of peril. In these extreme circumstances, the shared struggle or threat can reveal the inherent humanity in each person, creating an unexpected sense of community and mutual support. The “beauty” that Hugo speaks of is not in the crisis itself, but in the way it can illuminate our capacity for unity and compassion, even among those who were once strangers.
Hugo’s words reflect the Romantic ideals of human connection and the belief that individuals, when faced with adversity, can transcend their individualism and act in service of a collective good. In moments of crisis, the focus shifts away from divisions of class, race, or background, and instead, people work together for survival or common goals. The experience of shared danger highlights our collective strength and the potential for unity that exists even in the most fractured of societies.
In modern terms, this quote resonates in the context of global crises, such as natural disasters, pandemics, or political upheavals, where communities often come together to support one another. It speaks to the transformative power of hardship, reminding us that through adversity, people can forge deep, meaningful connections that might not have been possible in more peaceful times. Hugo’s words encourage us to recognize and embrace the fraternity that exists within humanity, particularly in times when the shared experience of danger challenges us to come together and care for one another.
