La Légende des Siècles

"La Légende des Siècles" by Victor Hugo is a collection of poems from the mid-1800s that seeks to capture humanity's journey through time. This work chronicles the evolution of human thought, philosophy, and ethics, showing human triumphs, conflicts, and growth. Presenting snapshots of historical events, the collection explores the duality of savagery and advancement found in humanity's story—it begins with an overview of mankind as a single entity striving for enlightenment. The collection weaves together historical settings, religious symbolism, and iconic figures, such as Cain, to explore guilt and the attempt to find redemption.