In Victor Hugo's "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame," there is a strong condemnation of modern inventions that he believes are detrimental to society. The author expresses a profound disdain for technological advancements, specifically artillery and printing, which he sees as threats to the traditional forms of art and literature. Hugo laments the decline of manuscripts and the rise of printing, predicting that this shift will ultimately lead to the demise of bookselling and, by extension, culture itself.

Hugo's nostalgic view suggests that these inventions undermine the richness of literature and the artistic world. He fears that the proliferation of printed materials will result in a loss of quality and craftsmanship in books, marking a significant decline in cultural heritage. This sentiment reflects a broader anxiety about modernization and its potential to erode established traditions and values, indicating Hugo's deep connection to the written word and its importance in society.