In Victor Hugo's "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame," the quote "I became like someone who dies in snow, I find the pleasure in the last sleep approaching" reflects a profound sense of resignation and acceptance of one's fate. The imagery of dying in snow evokes a chilling but peaceful end, suggesting a surrender to the inevitability of death. This notion highlights the character's internal struggles, showing how, in the face of despair, one may find solace in the idea of release from suffering.
The line underscores the theme of existential contemplation present in the novel. Rather than fighting against fate, the character embraces the tranquility that the end brings, akin to a final rest. Hugo masterfully illustrates a duality of despair and a kind of serene acceptance, inviting readers to reflect on their own views of life, death, and the complexities of emotional experiences amid hardship.