Candide
Written by Voltaire
Narrated by Ted Delorme
4.5/5
()
About this audiobook
Candide is the story of a gentle man who, though pummeled and slapped in every direction by fate, clings desperately to the belief that he lives in "the best of all possible worlds."
On the surface a witty, bantering tale, this eighteenth-century classic is actually a savage, satiric thrust at the philosophical optimism that proclaims that all disaster and human suffering is part of a benevolent cosmic plan.
Fast, funny, often outrageous - the French philosopher's immortal narrative takes Candide around the world to discover that - contrary to the teachings of his distringuished tutor Dr. Pangloss - all is not always for the best.
Alive with wit, brilliance, and graceful storytelling, Candide has become Voltaire's most celebrated work.
An Author's Republic audio production.
Voltaire
Born in Paris in 1694, François-Marie Arouet, who would later go by the nom-de-plume Voltaire, was a French Enlightenment philosopher, poet, historian, and author. Voltaire’s writing was often controversial, and in 1715 he was sent into his first exile in Tulle after a writing a satirical piece about the Duke of Orleans, the Regent of France. It was during this time that he produced his first major work, the play Oedipus. Although allowed to return to Paris a year later, Voltaire’s writing continued to land him in trouble. He was jailed in the Bastille two more times and was exiled from Paris for a good portion of his life. Throughout these troubles, Voltaire continued to write, producing works of poetry, a number of plays, and some historical and political texts. His most famous work is the satirical novel Candide, and many of his plays, including Oedipus and Socrates, are still performed today. Voltaire died in 1778.
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Reviews for Candide
13 ratings8 reviews
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5With its engaging narrative, sharp wit, and thought-provoking themes, "Candide" is suitable for listeners of all ages and backgrounds who enjoy intelligent and provocative fiction.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Candide continues to resonate with contemporary audiences due to its timeless themes and universal insights.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Fans of classic literature will appreciate the opportunity to experience "Candide" in audio book format, allowing them to immerse themselves in Voltaire's timeless satire and philosophical inquiry.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5The audio book version of "Candide" features expert narration that brings Voltaire's witty and satirical prose to life. This audio captures the humor, irony, and philosophical depth of the novella, making it a compelling and immersive listening experience.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Whether exploring the absurdity of war, the folly of human ambition, or the fleeting nature of happiness, Voltaire's novella speaks to the enduring complexities of the human experience.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Throughout "Candide," Voltaire employs satire to critique the social, political, and religious institutions of 18th-century Europe. From the hypocrisy of the clergy to the folly of blind optimism, Voltaire skewers the absurdities of his era with wit and irreverence, offering incisive commentary on the human condition that remains relevant today.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Candide is a staple of literature curricula in schools and universities around the world, and the audio book version provides a convenient and accessible resource for students and educators studying the novella.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Through Candide's encounters with various characters and situations, Voltaire challenges the prevailing philosophical and religious beliefs of his time, inviting listeners to question their own assumptions and perspectives.