Voltaire

Easton Press Voltaire books

Candide - 100 Greatest Books Ever Written - 1977

The Age of Voltaire - History of Civilization Set
Voltaire - Harvard Classics

Franklin Library Voltaire books

Candide - 100 Greatest Books of All Time - 1977
Candide & Zadig - Collected Stories of the World's Greatest Writers - 1977
Candide - World's Best Loved Books - 1980

Candide - Oxford Library of The World's Greatest Books - 1981

 

 

About Voltaire

François-Marie Arouet, known by his pen name Voltaire, was a luminary of the Enlightenment era, renowned for his wit, intellect, and impassioned advocacy for civil liberties and reason. Born on November 21, 1694, in Paris, France, Voltaire's upbringing was privileged, though marked by tragedy and rebellion against the societal norms of his time. From a young age, Voltaire demonstrated a voracious appetite for learning, immersing himself in the works of classical literature, philosophy, and science. His sharp intellect and irreverent wit quickly earned him recognition among Parisian literary circles, where he honed his skills as a playwright and poet. However, it was Voltaire's unwavering commitment to challenging the prevailing authorities and championing the principles of tolerance and freedom of thought that defined his legacy. Throughout his life, he fearlessly critiqued the abuses of power perpetrated by the church and the state, often at great personal risk.

In 1717, Voltaire's scathing satire targeting the French government resulted in his imprisonment in the Bastille for nearly a year. Yet, this setback only fueled his determination to advocate for justice and liberty through his prolific writings. Voltaire's magnum opus, Candide, published in 1759, stands as a timeless masterpiece of philosophical satire, critiquing the optimism of Leibnizian philosophy amidst the backdrop of catastrophic events. This work, among many others, exemplifies Voltaire's profound insights into the human condition and his relentless pursuit of truth and reason.

Beyond his literary contributions, Voltaire was an ardent advocate for social reform. He tirelessly campaigned against injustice, whether it be religious intolerance or censorship. His famous declaration, "I do not agree with what you have to say, but I'll defend to the death your right to say it," encapsulates his unwavering commitment to free speech and intellectual freedom. Voltaire's influence extended far beyond the borders of France, shaping the Enlightenment ideals that would inspire revolutions and reform movements around the globe. His legacy as a champion of liberty and reason endures to this day, serving as a beacon of enlightenment in an ever-changing world. François-Marie Arouet, the man behind the pen name Voltaire, remains a towering figure whose profound insights and unwavering courage continue to inspire generations.