"The hidden force of fate is symbolized by the superhuman grandeur and multitudinous imageries of the cathedral. 'The first part ... is a panorama of medieval life--religious, civic, popular, and criminal--drawn with immense learning and an amazing command of spectacular effect. These elements are then set into motion in a fantastic and grandiose drama, of which the personages are romantic sublimations of human virtues and passions--Quasimodo the hunchback, faithful unto death; Esmeralda, incarnation of innocence and steadfastness; Claude Frolla, Faust-like type of the antagonism between religion and appetite. Splendors and absurdities, the sublime and the grotesque are inextricably mingled in this strange romance. The date is fixed at the year 1482.' Baker. Guide to the Best Fic."