The quote suggests that war, regardless of how it's categorized—whether as civil or foreign—is ultimately a conflict between people who share common humanity and often familial ties. This perspective challenges the notion that there are fundamental differences between wars fought within the same nation versus those waged against other countries.
Beyond its surface meaning, Victor Hugo's words imply a profound connection among all human beings, highlighting how war disrupts this inherent bond. By framing conflict as something that occurs between brothers and men, Hugo underscores the tragedy of people turning on one another despite their shared identity and mutual suffering. This observation invites readers to consider the futility of division and the importance of unity in the face of adversity.
Victor Hugo, a renowned French writer known for his influential works such as "Les Misérables" and "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame," penned this quote as part of his broader philosophical reflections on human nature and society. His deep understanding of history and its cycles of conflict informs much of his writing, which often explores themes of social justice and the struggles between good and evil.
