Violence In Voltaire's Candide

Some people argue that violence and war is the solution to all problems. In Candide, by Voltaire, several instances of violence are present. This violence serves to illustrate Voltaire’s message that one must find a balance between optimism and pessimism in order to live a fulfilled life. In Candide, several violent events contribute to Voltaire’s message that optimism and pessimism together lead to the best possible life. On his journey, Candide meets an old woman who has suffered through many acts of violence. She had her own buttocks cut off, as well as witnessed human cannibalism. Despite the extremely violent situations she has been in, the old woman continues to remain optimistic. However, she still realizes the harshness of these situations and debates suicide several times. Her optimism about life saves her from this deadly act. Knowing that evil exits in the world, but still remaining positive about life is the best philosophy in life, according to Voltaire. Through the downfall of optimistic characters, Voltaire’s novel Candide also seeks to reveal that those who are optimistic and pessimistic live the best lives. Candide meets John the Anabaptist while on his journey.

The Baron, Cunegonde’s brother, does not want Cunegonde to marry Candide because he is a commoner. At first, Candide has a pessimistic attitude and accepts this fate for himself. Then, he becomes enraged and stabs his sword through the Baron. His optimism towards marrying Cunegonde is restored after committing this immoral deed. Later in the story, the Baron returns, and so does Candide’s pessimistic attitude. This time, he sends the Baron back to the Turkish chain gang to restore his hopes of marrying Cunegonde once again. This balance between pessimism and optimism helps Candide get closer to his goal of marrying Cunegonde, illustrating Voltaire’s