Voltaire's Rejection Of Optimism In Candide

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The novel finishes with Candide experiencing a complete learning curve and rejecting Pangloss’ philosophies. He instead finds happiness in hard work (Voltaire 144). Voltaire attempts to evoke society to question this philosophy that is popularized by other philosophes. This is merely not an efficient philosophical understanding of the world. Optimism is both nonsensical and harmful to the world as Voltaire demonstrates throughout his satirical work. Voltaire makes this clear, and it is impossible for one to read through these events and not question optimism. Voltaire’s rejection of optimism affects his overall outlook on society and social order as well.

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