Candide, published simultaneously in five European capitals in 1759, became an instant best seller and is now regarded as one of the key texts of the Enlightenment. Voltaire's preoccupations with evil and with various kinds of human folly and intolerance found a perfect vehicle in the philosophical tale. A master storyteller, he combined often wildly entertaining action with profoundly serious sense, parodying the traditional chivalric and oriental tales with which his public was more familiar to create a witty allegory of a young man whose optimism gives way to disillusionment after a series of terrible misfortunes.
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"I was surprised to find how much I enjoyed this book, even though it was written so long ago. I think I read it for a class in college, but I can't remember for what subject or for what purpose. You'll be surprised how many familiar themes and plots are crammed into this little book. " — Brittany (4 out of 5 stars)
"I was surprised to find how much I enjoyed this book, even though it was written so long ago. I think I read it for a class in college, but I can't remember for what subject or for what purpose. You'll be surprised how many familiar themes and plots are crammed into this little book. "
" An old story that retains a fresh voice for modern readers and a curious contemplation on why people suffer. I'd like to read David Rachoff's new book, Half-Empty, for his thoughts on the role of optimism. "
" Excellent read. Entertaining story with just the right amount of sarcasm that makes it still funny today. Very well thought out and enacted by Voltaire. "
" Wonderfu, funny, wicked "Il faut culticer son jardin" is my philosophy of life "
" This novel is one of greatest novel all time. The storyline is beautiful. The events that take place is more thrillering after one another. nothing more to say but yes! "
" It was amusing. But I had a hard time trying to pay attention to it. The things that happen are absolutely ridiculous but its awesome in that way "
" Just stay at home and work in your garden. That is happiness. "
" Classic for a reason. Old humor that stands the test of time and is relevant today. Human nature must not change... "
" The Enlightenment boiled down to sarcasm. Love this book. "
" had to read it for my humanities class but i actually slightly enjoyed it as opposed to being tortured. "
" So, I needed an easy, quick read during all my exam preperations. I definitly hit the nail on it's head! I found my self giggling through all of it, and appreciated Voltaires point of views written into every part of it. "
Voltaire (1694–1778), born François-Marie Arouet, was a French Enlightenment writer, historian, and philosopher known for his wit, philosophical sport, and defense of civil liberties. He produced works in almost every literary form, including poetry, novels, essays, plays, historical and scientific works, and over two thousand books and pamphlets.
Jack Davenport is an English actor best known for his roles in the television series This Life, Coupling, Smash, and as James Norrington in the Pirates of the Caribbean films. In addition to film and theater, he has lent his voice to many audiobooks and voice-overs for commercials. Some of his audiobook credits include A Clockwork Orange, Black Dogs, Candide, among others, and his narrations have won two AudioFile Earphones Awards.
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