Paul Meurice

Born in Paris in 1820, Paul Meurice became known as a novelist, playwright, poet, and journalist. He is especially remembered for his lifelong connection with Victor Hugo: he was part of Hugo’s circle, shared his political commitments, and later played a major role in preserving and promoting Hugo’s legacy.

Meurice worked across several forms, writing fiction as well as plays, and he often adapted major literary works for the theater. His collaborations and stage versions helped bring well-known stories to new audiences, and his career placed him firmly in the literary life of 19th-century France.

After Hugo’s death, Meurice was one of the key figures responsible for editing, organizing, and safeguarding Hugo’s papers and memory. He died in 1905, leaving behind not only his own body of work but also an important legacy as one of the most devoted stewards of French Romantic literature.