“Adversity makes men, and prosperity makes monsters.”
- 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.
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Quote
“Adversity makes men, and prosperity makes monsters.”
Explanation
In this quote, Victor Hugo suggests that adversity—or hardship—has the ability to shape individuals into stronger, more resilient and virtuous people, while prosperity—unearned or excessive success—can lead to corruption, greed, and selfishness. When faced with challenges, individuals are forced to grow, adapt, and find inner strength, often developing a sense of character, humility, and wisdom in the process. Adversity, therefore, can be seen as a transformative force that builds moral integrity and strength.
In contrast, prosperity, if not handled with balance and humility, can foster arrogance, entitlement, and a lack of compassion for others. When a person enjoys wealth or success without the grounding influence of hardship, they may become detached from the struggles of others and develop a distorted sense of self-importance—turning them into a “monster” in their pursuit of more at the expense of others.
Hugo’s words reflect his belief in the moral and spiritual growth that comes through struggle, and his cautionary view of wealth and ease as potential sources of moral decay.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the idea that difficult times often lead to greater personal growth, and that the challenges we face are what make us more empathetic and strong. Conversely, unearned wealth or unchecked success can lead to hubris and a loss of perspective, making people less compassionate and more likely to exploit others. It encourages us to recognize that adversity often molds us into better versions of ourselves, while prosperity requires humility and responsibility to avoid turning us into something less human.
