In Victor Hugo's "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame," the intensity of love is depicted as an all-consuming force that can lead to both ecstasy and despair. The narrator expresses the turmoil of loving deeply, highlighting a willingness to sacrifice everything for mere glances from a beloved. This passionate love is juxtaposed against the potential for hatred, suggesting that profound emotions often exist side by side.
The quote emphasizes the extremes of human emotion, where love can be both divine and devastating. The speaker's fervent devotion reveals a deep internal struggle, illustrating how affection can drive a person to the brink of self-destruction while also infusing life with purpose and meaning. This duality serves to underscore Hugo’s exploration of the complexities of love and its profound impact on the human spirit.