Satire Philosophical novel Adventure Optimism vs. reality The folly of man The critique of religion The search for happiness
Candide, ou l'Optimisme is a philosophical tale written by Voltaire and published in 1759 under the pseudonym Monsieur le docteur Ralph.
This story tells us about the adventures of the protagonist Candide in which the precept of Leibnizian optimism that "everything happens for the best in this, the best of all possible worlds" is refuted. Although the character clings to this phrase, experience will dramatically prove otherwise.
With an erratic tone and plot, it spoofs many adventure and romance clichĂŠs with a cartoonish tone. In addition, numerous historical events appear, such as the Lisbon earthquake or the Seven Years' War.
Voltaire criticizes in this work religion, governments, armies or philosophers. That is why it had a great impact and was a scandal for some sectors of society. It was banned after publication
#27 in Literary fiction (this month)
#1 in Humor (this month)
The Candide book is available for download in PDF, ePUB and Mobi:
Copyright info
Candide by Voltaire is believed to be in the public domain in the United States only. It may still be copyrighted in other countries. If you are not in the United States, please check your local laws to ensure this eBook is in the public domain in your country before downloading Candide in PDF or ePub.
War, shipwrecks, earthquakesâoptimism gets field-tested. Voltaire turns philosophy into slapstick to ask whether any system survives contact with reality, then points toward simple work and decency.
A swift antidote to simplistic takes. Laugh first, think harder afterâperfect for ethics classes and news-weary readers.
Arguments tried in the wild.
Every stop, a new mirror.
Compassion over slogans.
Perfect for
These collections include Candide:
Share this book
Light against fanaticism: satire, clarity, and civic courage.
We have 4 books by Voltaire in the AliceAndBooks library