Candide

Candide

• Genre: Satire; Philosophical Fiction
• Originally Published: 1759
• Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 1110L Adult
• Structure/Length: Novel divided into chapters; approximately 129 pages; audiobook length approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes.
• Protagonist/Central Conflict: Candide is a satirical novella by Voltaire that follows the adventures of its titular character, Candide. The central conflict revolves around Candide's journey, which begins with his expulsion from the Baron's castle and takes him on a whirlwind tour of the world. He encounters various absurd and often tragic situations, all while seeking his beloved Cunégonde. The novella is a scathing critique of the philosophical optimism of the time, particularly as espoused by Leibniz, and it uses humor and irony to satirize the injustices and follies of the world. Candide is a classic work of satire that remains relevant for its commentary on human nature, society, and the pursuit of happiness.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Themes related to satire, social criticism, and philosophical exploration

Voltaire (François-Marie Arouet), Author

• Bio: Born 1694, died 1778; influential French Enlightenment writer known for his wit, satire, and philosophical writings; Voltaire was a prolific author and philosopher of the 18th century.
• Other Works: Letters Concerning the English Nation (1733); Philosophical Dictionary (1764)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

• The 18th-Century Philosophy of Optimism
• Utopia: A Common Thought Experiment of the 18th Century in France
• The Pursuit of Happiness and Individual Suffering

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will:

• Gain an understanding of the historical, literary, and philosophical contexts of the text.
• Discuss paired texts and other brief resources to make connections via the text’s themes of Optimism, Utopia, and Happiness and Individual Suffering.
• Think critically about whether we live in the best of all possible worlds by holding an in-class debate.
• Evaluate the themes, symbols, and motifs of the text in structured essay responses on Candide’s character, the role of women in the story, and other topics.