“Love that is not jealous is neither true nor pure.”
- 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
“Love that is not jealous is neither true nor pure.”
Explanation
In this quote, Victor Hugo suggests that jealousy is an inherent and perhaps necessary part of genuine love. For Hugo, jealousy is a natural expression of deep emotional attachment, signaling a person’s concern and desire to protect the bond they share with someone. A love that is free from jealousy may appear to be untroubled or secure, but Hugo argues that it lacks the depth, passion, and commitment that are characteristic of true love. In his view, love without jealousy is not completely real or pure, as it fails to fully reflect the intensity of emotions and the vulnerability that come with truly caring for someone.
Hugo’s perspective reflects his belief in the complexity of love. Jealousy here is not portrayed as negative or destructive but as a sign of possessiveness and protectiveness—emotions that are often tied to the intensity of love. It shows how deeply a person values the relationship, which, in turn, enhances the genuine connection and intimacy they share.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the emotional and human nature of love, acknowledging that jealousy, while often seen as a flaw, can also be an indicator of the strength and vulnerability that love brings. It encourages us to reflect on the intensity of our feelings and recognize that true love often involves both joy and pain, both confidence and insecurity—and that jealousy, in this context, may simply reflect the depth of those emotions.
