Synopsis: In Paris, 1942, a hideously deformed figure moves within the bell tower of Notre Dame. Below a beautiful girl dances watched by a transfixed public. Meanwhile a man dressed in black watches, ready to wreak his revenge.

Review: Can such a classic tale still resonate with a contemporary audience? Jan Needle has translated Victor Hugo’s tragic novel for an audience of young adults.

Even Disney has attempted to retell this heartbreaking story; displaying  commitment to the importance of Hugo’s writing. So what is different about this version? Its mixture of accompanying illustrations and photographs truly bring the tale to life beyond the words on the page. Although previously aware of the story I had never read the book before, and it was even more gruesome than I had imagined; which made me wonder how on earth it could have been adapted by such a family friendly institution as Disney. However, those who dislike the sentimentality of Disney should not be put off by this translation, as this edition will certainly appeal to an entirely different audience, due to its bleak nature. A priest who has lustful feelings towards a young girl, and a deformed man destroyed by a pitiless public combine to produce a devastating read. Esmeralda isn’t written as the redeeming and loving character that I had expected; instead  she seems to care little for the tragic Quasimodo. The story relies on the fictional representation Paris; at a time when people were hung and tortured and it is vital to remember  that at this  time  hangings were regarded as public entertainment.

This story did create a cathartic reaction. The sympathy felt towards the Bell Ringer is immense, as those he loves do not requite his dedication towards them. In fact Djali, the ‘magical’ goat, appears to be the only truly loved figure, and is certainly the happiest and luckiest of the characters. Needle has produced a successful translation that will allow young adults to engage with the classic tragedy. The accompanying grotesque, yet stunning illustrations, have helped to produce a book that will be selected from the bookshelf for years to come.

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2007-03-18