“Jesus wept; Voltaire smiled. From that divine tear and from that human smile is derived the grace of present civilization.”
- 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
“Jesus wept; Voltaire smiled. From that divine tear and from that human smile is derived the grace of present civilization.”
Explanation
In this quote, Victor Hugo contrasts two figures—Jesus, representing the divine and sacred, and Voltaire, representing humanity and reason—as symbols of the two forces that have shaped modern civilization. The tear of Jesus reflects deep compassion, sacrifice, and suffering for humanity, embodying the moral and spiritual aspects of civilization. On the other hand, Voltaire’s smile symbolizes the human capacity for reason, criticism, and the intellectual progress of society. Hugo suggests that these two elements—faith and reason, suffering and intellect—have together created the balance that has driven the evolution of civilization.
Hugo’s statement reflects his belief that religion and philosophy, as represented by Jesus and Voltaire, are both necessary to the progress of humanity. The tear of Jesus represents the empathy and spiritual connection that give depth and meaning to human life, while Voltaire’s smile represents the enlightenment and intellectual rigor that allow societies to question, challenge, and improve themselves. Together, these forces create the grace of civilization—a balance between compassion and reason that fosters a more humane and progressive world.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the dual importance of spirituality and reason in shaping both individual lives and the broader trajectory of society. It reminds us that while empathy, compassion, and human connection are essential, the ability to think critically and question established norms is equally vital to the growth and development of a just and thoughtful civilization. Hugo’s words suggest that the best of civilization emerges from the harmonious interplay of heart and mind, faith and reason.
