"The last resort of kings, the cannonball. The last resort of the people, the paving stone"

Victor Hugo's quote speaks to the power characteristics between rulers and individuals. The "last hope of kings" is the cannonball, a weapon of war used to keep control and power. The cannonball is a sign of the king's ultimate power and authority. On the other hand, the "last option of individuals" is the paving stone, a tool of demonstration and resistance. The paving stone is a sign of individuals's collective power and their capability to withstand oppressive rulers. Hugo's quote highlights the stark contrast between the power of the king and the power of individuals. The king has the power of the cannonball, while individuals have the power of the paving stone. Hugo's quote works as a reminder that the people have the power to withstand and fight back against oppressive rulers.