Optimism In Candide
Candide, by Voltaire, is a book depicted in the 18th c. that tells the story of a young man named, Candide, and the misfortunate life he must live through; even though, it may seem as all the physical events and situations he encounters are the most significant details about the story, it is the internal conflict and shift from optimism to an eventual unfortunate realization of the truths of the terrible world we live in that truly exemplify Voltaire’s point of view. It begins with Candide, who lives a peaceful life in a castle with seemingly no problems or worries. Meanwhile, he is being taught by his mentor, Professor Pangloss, about the beauty of optimism and a positive perception of the world and it becomes a part of Candide’s personality. However, the entire novel is about this shift in mentality that Candide experiences throughout his life, it seems as though his fate is tragic. Consequently, a sudden abrupt end to this ideal life is triggered by his pursuit of a forbidden relationship with his love Cunegonde, the king’s daughter, and this prohibited love gets Candide thrown out of the castle and out into the harsh real world where he is faced with adversities that seem unsurpassable and inescapable. …show more content…
Throughout the progression of the novel the readers can get a sense that Candide’s will is strong but it is permissible, after all he is human, and the world is cruel. Even what is seemingly ‘positive’ in society has the shadow of negativity cast upon it as it is dragged into the unforgiving reality of Voltaire’s thoughts and experiences in the 18th c.; things such as: the inquisition, the Lisbon earthquake, the 7 years’ war, etc. are all encompassed in the book and all directly affect Candide in the
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1226 Words | 5 PagesOne key facet of living in the world today is the ability for people to have free will over their own lives. In Voltaire’s story “Candide,” it is clear to observe that although Candide is free to form his own decisions, he allows himself to be strongly determined by his surroundings as well as everyone who he encounters. This story proposes that Candide is trying to find a balance between submitting completely to the speculations and actions of others while also taking control of his life through blind faith. Throughout the story, Candide encounters frequent hardships along his voyage to prosperity. These obstacles include, but are not limited to becoming a bulwark, being beaten and forced to watch his beloved Pangloss having been hanged, leaving such an amazing place as Eldorado, being lied to and tricked out of diamonds by the abb`e, killing Cunegonde’s two lovers, almost being boiled alive for killing the monkey lovers, and being persuaded to be promiscuous on Cunegonde.
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Gender Role In Voltaire's Candide
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1501 Words | 7 PagesVoltaire is well known for his suggestive satirical work, especially his masterpiece Candide. Candide is a timeless piece still relevant today, that was written to warn the public about the consequences of radical optimism (Online-Literature 1). The main character, Candide, is a naïve and trusting young man who is banished from his home. Despite his life being filled with a series of bizarre disasters, Candide holds fast to his optimism – which serves as an example to readers. Voltaire emphasizes the dangers of radical optimism by incorporating tone, themes and utilizing satire in Candide.
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