Meaning: The quote "I put a Phrygian cap on the old dictionary" is a metaphorical statement made by Victor Hugo, a prolific French author, best known for his novels "Les Misérables" and "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame." The quote is a metaphor that symbolizes the act of giving new life or a new perspective to something old and traditional.

The Phrygian cap, also known as the liberty cap, is a soft, conical cap with the top pulled forward, which was worn by ancient Phrygians and later became a symbol of freedom and the pursuit of liberty. In the context of the quote, placing a Phrygian cap on the old dictionary suggests the act of revitalizing or reinterpreting traditional knowledge or language, infusing it with new meaning or significance.

Victor Hugo was known for his innovative and revolutionary ideas, and this quote reflects his belief in the power of reimagining and reinvigorating established concepts. It encapsulates the notion that old, familiar things can be transformed and given new relevance through creative reinterpretation.

The act of putting a Phrygian cap on the old dictionary can be interpreted as a call for embracing change and evolution in language and literature, rather than clinging to rigid, outdated conventions. It encourages a dynamic approach to knowledge and language, emphasizing the importance of breathing new life into traditional forms of expression.

In a broader sense, the quote can also be seen as a metaphor for societal and political change. The Phrygian cap has been historically associated with the pursuit of freedom and the overthrow of oppressive regimes. By placing this symbol on the old dictionary, Hugo may be suggesting the need to challenge established power structures and norms, and to embrace new, more liberating ideologies.

Furthermore, the quote may also reflect Hugo's own approach to writing and creativity. As a writer, he was known for his ability to infuse his works with social and political commentary, often challenging the status quo. By putting a Phrygian cap on the old dictionary, Hugo may be expressing his belief in the transformative power of literature and the arts to challenge and reshape conventional thinking.

Overall, Victor Hugo's quote "I put a Phrygian cap on the old dictionary" encapsulates his progressive and innovative spirit, advocating for the reimagining and revitalization of traditional knowledge, language, and societal norms. It serves as a reminder of the potential for old, established concepts to be infused with new meaning and relevance, and encourages a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to language, literature, and society.