"I have examined the death penalty under each of its two aspects: as a direct action, and as an indirect one. What does it come down to? Nothing but something horrible and useless, nothing but a way of shedding blood that is called a crime when an individual commits it, but is sadly called "justice" when society brings it about. Make no mistake, you lawmakers and judges, in the eyes of God as in those of conscience, what is a crime when individuals do it is no less an offense when society commits the deed."

12 likes

Source: Victor Hugo (1980). “Les misérables”, Viking Pr

About the author

Victor Hugo

Novelist, Poet

Victor Hugo was a French poet, novelist, and playwright, noted for his impactful works like 'Les Misérables' and 'The Hunchback of Notre-Dame', which explore themes of love and social justice.

All quotes by Victor Hugo →

Same author

More quotes by Victor Hugo

See all →
Victor Hugo Novelist, Poet

"Go out in the world and work like money doesn't matter, sing as if no one is listening, love as if you have never been hurt, and dance as if no one is watching."

Read quote