Machiavelli is not an evil genius, nor a demon, nor a miserable and cowardly writer; he is nothing but the fact. And he is not only the Italian fact; he is the European fact, the fact of the sixteenth century. He seems hideous, and so he is, in the presence of the moral idea of the nineteenth.
In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables", he presents a unique perspective on Machiavelli, distancing him from typical depictions as an evil figure. Instead, Hugo argues that Machiavelli embodies a reflection of his time, representing the historical and political realities of 16th-century Europe rather than mere moral failing. His writing captures the complexities and brutalities of his era, making him relevant beyond Italy, showing his influence across Europe.
Hugo acknowledges that Machiavelli's ideas may seem monstrous when viewed through the moral lens of the 19th century. This recognition emphasizes the evolving nature of ethics and political thought, suggesting that Machiavelli's works, while contentious, are important for understanding the sociopolitical landscape of his time. By doing so, Hugo challenges readers to consider context and historical significance when evaluating the contributions of such figures in history.
