Meaning: This quote by Victor Hugo, a renowned French author, succinctly captures the dynamic and often tumultuous relationship between those in power and the people they govern. It highlights the historical truth that both rulers and the ruled have resorted to force and violence when other avenues of communication and redress have failed. The quote is a powerful commentary on the nature of authority, resistance, and the potential for conflict in society.

In the quote, Hugo contrasts the "last resort" of kings with that of the people. For rulers, historically the "last resort" has been the use of military force, represented by the cannonball. Throughout history, kings and rulers have utilized military might to maintain their power, suppress dissent, and quell rebellions. The cannonball symbolizes the ultimate display of authority and the willingness to use force to maintain control.

On the other hand, the "last resort" of the people is represented by the paving stone. This imagery evokes the idea of a common, everyday object being transformed into a weapon of resistance. The paving stone, typically associated with the construction of roads and infrastructure, becomes a symbol of defiance and rebellion when wielded by the people. It represents the potential for grassroots movements, popular uprisings, and revolutions, where ordinary citizens use whatever means they have at their disposal to challenge oppressive systems of governance.

Victor Hugo, known for his literary works that often championed the struggles of the underprivileged and oppressed, was keenly aware of the power dynamics at play in society. His writings frequently delved into themes of justice, social inequality, and the plight of the disenfranchised. In this quote, Hugo encapsulates the enduring struggle between those in authority and those seeking to challenge or overthrow that authority.

The quote also reflects the historical context of Hugo's own lifetime. Living through a period of significant political and social upheaval in France, including the 1830 July Revolution and the 1848 Revolution, Hugo witnessed firsthand the power dynamics between rulers and the populace. These experiences likely informed his perspective on the use of force and resistance in the face of entrenched power structures.

Moreover, the quote resonates beyond its historical context, speaking to universal themes of power, resistance, and the potential for conflict in human societies. Across different cultures and time periods, similar dynamics have played out, as rulers and the ruled navigate their relationships and confrontations.

In conclusion, Victor Hugo's quote effectively encapsulates the complex interplay between authority and resistance, power and defiance. It serves as a powerful reminder of the historical struggles for justice and equality, as well as a timeless commentary on the enduring tensions between those in power and those who seek to challenge or overthrow them.