A review by simon_reads03
Candide by Voltaire
5.0
What an adventure! Candide was wonderful to experience. From the writing to the historical references, to the utter wit, this was incredible.
Candide takes the reader on an extensive journey through various parts of Europe and South America as our main hero, Candide, is kicked in the behind by the world and given the worst luck ever. One of the biggest strengths of this short novel was the incredible cast of characters. The amount of people Candide encounters is actually unbelievable yet fun. Every single one of them is somehow fleshed out in Voltaire’s fresh and daring writing.
There is a certain lightness to this story, while still containing both heavy philosophical questions and an extensive journey with many names and historical ideas pertaining to the 18th century.
This feels like a true adventure story, filled with twists, voyages, murder, escape, and the quest for a true (?) love. Not only are the conversations and emotions palpable, but also the humor take is magnificent. The story doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet it is, indeed, serious, and with that conclusion, anyone would be enchanted by the optimistic Candide.
*It is important to note that this story — having been written originally in French in the 18th century — utilizes gruesome language of people of color and jewish people. This may be offensive if read out of context, and is important to acknowledge the historical factors that played into this novel, as well as to remember those who suffered while others rejoiced.*
Candide takes the reader on an extensive journey through various parts of Europe and South America as our main hero, Candide, is kicked in the behind by the world and given the worst luck ever. One of the biggest strengths of this short novel was the incredible cast of characters. The amount of people Candide encounters is actually unbelievable yet fun. Every single one of them is somehow fleshed out in Voltaire’s fresh and daring writing.
There is a certain lightness to this story, while still containing both heavy philosophical questions and an extensive journey with many names and historical ideas pertaining to the 18th century.
This feels like a true adventure story, filled with twists, voyages, murder, escape, and the quest for a true (?) love. Not only are the conversations and emotions palpable, but also the humor take is magnificent. The story doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet it is, indeed, serious, and with that conclusion, anyone would be enchanted by the optimistic Candide.
*It is important to note that this story — having been written originally in French in the 18th century — utilizes gruesome language of people of color and jewish people. This may be offensive if read out of context, and is important to acknowledge the historical factors that played into this novel, as well as to remember those who suffered while others rejoiced.*