An evergreen satire from the 18th century

Candide is more than 250 years old, but unlike many historical texts, it retains both its humor and its capacity to utterly shock the reader. Voltaire, the polymathic Enlightenment wit, begins with a pair of charmed lovers in a castle, then gradually inflicts upon them a series of physical, political, and psychological injuries which call into question the basic goodness of the world.

All the while, Candide engages in a polemic against religious complacency, intellectual shortcuts, and excessive trust in providence. Professor Pangloss, the childhood tutor of Candide, is ever-present with his bromides about this being "the best of all possible worlds," despite the growing mass of evidence to the contrary, which Voltaire never misses a chance to multiply with additional misery.

Oddly — and I'll try not to spoil it — the ending to this cynical book has been a source of strength for many lost souls. Voltaire's satire is not simply about listing the world's horrors; it's fundamentally about trying to build a meaningful life without lying to oneself. Once self-delusion becomes untenable, as it does for everyone who meets life with eyes open, on what basis do we continue?

About this edition

This Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition features a cover illustrated by illustrious comics artist Chris Ware. Deckled edges and folded cover flaps give this affordable paperback a polished appearance, suitable to keep on your shelf for many years of reference and re-reading.