Although Hugo was fascinated by poems from childhood on, he spent some time on the polytechnic university of Paris until he dedicated all his work to literature. He was one of the few authors who were allowed to reach popularity during lifetime and one of the leaders of French romance.
After the death of his daughter 'Leopoldine' in 1843 he started a career in politics and became member of the Paris chamber where he fought for left ideas. After the reestablishing of monarchy he had to go into exil to Guernesey (1851 - 1870) where his literal work became more important, e.g. "Les Miserables" was written during that period. After his return to Paris he did not join politics anymore.
