Candide

Definition

'Candide' is a satirical novella written by the Enlightenment philosopher Voltaire, first published in 1759. The story follows the misadventures of a young man named Candide who, influenced by his optimistic tutor Pangloss, embarks on a journey that challenges his naive worldview. Through its humor and absurdity, 'Candide' critiques optimism and philosophical ideas of the time, while also addressing themes such as suffering, injustice, and the search for happiness in a flawed world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Candide' was published anonymously in 1759 and quickly became controversial due to its critique of religion and optimism.
2. The character Pangloss represents the epitome of blind optimism, insisting that despite Candide's many hardships, everything is for the best.
3. Voltaire uses dark humor and absurd scenarios throughout 'Candide' to highlight the stark realities of suffering and injustice in society.
4. The journey of Candide includes encounters with various characters and events that symbolize the harshness of life, ultimately leading him to a more pragmatic worldview.
5. 'Candide' ends with the famous conclusion that 'we must cultivate our garden', suggesting a shift towards personal responsibility and practical action rather than philosophical speculation.

Review Questions

• How does Voltaire use satire in 'Candide' to critique optimism?
  • In 'Candide', Voltaire employs satire by exaggerating the misfortunes faced by Candide and other characters to expose the absurdity of blind optimism. For example, Pangloss's unwavering belief that every event contributes to the greater good becomes increasingly ridiculous as Candide witnesses war, natural disasters, and human suffering. Through these exaggerated experiences, Voltaire invites readers to question the validity of optimistic philosophies prevalent during the Enlightenment.
• Discuss how the character development of Candide reflects Enlightenment ideals regarding reason and experience.
  • Throughout 'Candide', Candide evolves from a naive youth influenced by Pangloss's teachings to a more seasoned individual shaped by his experiences. Initially embodying the Enlightenment ideal of uncritical acceptance of philosophical doctrines, Candide gradually learns that real-life experiences often contradict simplistic beliefs. This transformation underscores the importance of personal experience over dogmatic philosophy in seeking truth and understanding one's place in a complex world.
• Evaluate how Voltaire's 'Candide' reflects broader societal critiques relevant to the Enlightenment period.
  • 'Candide' serves as a multifaceted critique of society during the Enlightenment, challenging established norms around philosophy, religion, and governance. By depicting the follies and injustices encountered by Candide on his journey, Voltaire highlights the limitations of philosophical optimism and critiques institutions like religion that perpetuate suffering. The novella ultimately advocates for pragmatic solutions to life's challenges, aligning with Enlightenment values that prioritize reasoned thought and social responsibility.

Related terms

Optimism: 'Optimism' refers to the philosophical belief that everything happens for the best in the best of all possible worlds, a concept heavily criticized in 'Candide'.

Satire: 'Satire' is a literary technique used to criticize human vices and folly through humor, irony, and exaggeration, which is a central element of 'Candide'.

Philosophy of the Enlightenment: 'Philosophy of the Enlightenment' encompasses a range of ideas that prioritize reason, individualism, and skepticism towards traditional authority, which are all explored through Voltaire's works.