LITERATURE - Voltaire

Summary

Voltaire, born François-Marie Arouet in 1694, was a French Enlightenment writer known for his wit and advocacy for reason, religious tolerance, and freedom of speech. His works, such as 'Candide' and 'Letters Concerning the English Nation,' critiqued religious intolerance and promoted deism. Voltaire's experiences in England influenced his views on a pluralistic society, and his later involvement in public causes, like the Calas case, showcased his commitment to justice. His legacy endures as a champion of liberal values.

Takeaways

• 📚 François-Marie Arouet, known as Voltaire, was a brilliant student and a prolific writer of the 18th century, often considered the embodiment of the Age of Enlightenment.
• 🔍 Voltaire's views on religion were complex; he was a deist who believed in a deity useful for social cohesion but was critical of religious intolerance and the Church's power.
• 🎭 His early work, 'La Henriade', focused on religious civil wars and criticized the violence stemming from religious differences, reflecting his aversion to fanaticism.
• 📜 Voltaire's time in England influenced his thoughts greatly, leading to the publication of 'Letters Concerning the English Nation', which praised English culture and Protestantism.
• 🏛️ In 'Letters', Voltaire depicted the Royal Exchange as a symbol of global harmony through trade, contrasting the peaceful coexistence of different religions with the religious strife in France.
• 📈 Voltaire popularized the works of English thinkers like Locke and Newton, making complex ideas accessible and contributing to their widespread recognition.
• 🌍 His novel 'Candide' satirized Optimism and explored the problem of evil, challenging the philosophical notion that all is for the best in a world where suffering is evident.
• 📜 'Candide' introduced enduring phrases into common language, reflecting Voltaire's influence on European Enlightenment and his lasting impact on culture.
• 🏡 Voltaire's later life was marked by advocacy and activism, particularly in his campaign for justice in the case of Jean Calas, highlighting his commitment to religious tolerance.
• ✍️ Known for his wit and style, Voltaire's writing was influential not only for its content but also for its form, with his ability to craft memorable phrases that resonated widely.
• 🌟 Voltaire's legacy is one of promoting liberal values such as freedom of speech, reason, and tolerance, shaping modern debates on these issues.

Q & A

What was François-Marie Arouet's contribution to the 18th century, and why is it sometimes referred to as the Age of Voltaire?

François-Marie Arouet, better known by his pen name Voltaire, was a prominent writer, poet, and philosopher during the 18th century, which is often called the Age of Enlightenment. His influential works, advocacy for freedom of speech, and criticism of religious intolerance and fanaticism made him a central figure of the era, hence the reference to it as the Age of Voltaire.

Why did Voltaire change his name from François-Marie Arouet?

Voltaire changed his name to distance himself from his family's legal profession and to establish a new identity as a writer. It was a strategic move that allowed him to gain recognition and eventually become one of the most influential figures of the Enlightenment.

What was Voltaire's stance on religion, and how did he view the role of the Church?

Voltaire was not an atheist; he believed in a deity but advocated for a rational, natural religion or deism, which rejected metaphysical aspects. He saw religion as useful for social cohesion but was critical of the Church, particularly the Catholic Church's dominance and its exploitation of believers for power.

Why did Voltaire choose to publish his work 'La Henriade' in London instead of France?

Voltaire's poem 'La Henriade' was about the French king Henry IV and his conversion from Protestantism to Catholicism, a subject that was sensitive for the Catholic authorities in France. They were not keen on its publication, so Voltaire decided to publish it in London to avoid censorship and potential legal trouble.

What was significant about Voltaire's stay in England, and how did it influence his views?

During his stay in England, Voltaire learned English, interacted with writers and politicians, and developed a deep admiration for English Protestant culture. This experience influenced his views on religious tolerance and the importance of a separation between religion and state, which he later expressed in his works.

What was the reaction of the French authorities to Voltaire's book 'Letters Concerning the English Nation'?

The French authorities were horrified by 'Letters Concerning the English Nation' because it presented a critical view of French culture and politics in comparison to England's. The book was censored, and Voltaire narrowly avoided imprisonment.

How did Voltaire's portrayal of the Royal Exchange in London reflect his views on religion and commerce?

Voltaire's description of the Royal Exchange highlighted the peaceful coexistence of people of different religions in a commercial setting. He suggested that religious differences were trivial compared to the unifying force of trade, and that a plurality of religions could lead to a more peaceful society, contrasting with the dominance of the Catholic Church in France.

What is the significance of Voltaire's popularization of the story about Newton and the apple?

Voltaire's retelling of the anecdote about Isaac Newton and the falling apple helped to simplify and popularize Newton's theory of gravity. This story has become a cultural touchstone, illustrating Voltaire's skill in making complex scientific concepts accessible and memorable to the public.

What is the philosophical theme of Voltaire's most famous work, 'Candide'?

The philosophical theme of 'Candide' is optimism, specifically challenging the Optimism philosophy of Leibniz, which argued that this is the best of all possible worlds despite the presence of evil. Voltaire uses the character Candide to satirize this view through a series of calamities and misfortunes, suggesting a more realistic and critical approach to understanding the world.

How did Voltaire's involvement in the Jean Calas case demonstrate his commitment to fighting religious intolerance?

Voltaire's involvement in the Jean Calas case, where Calas was falsely accused and executed due to religious bias, showcased his commitment to fighting religious intolerance. He used his influence to campaign for Calas's posthumous exoneration and to raise awareness about religious persecution, furthering his legacy as a champion of tolerance and reason.

What is the meaning behind Voltaire's famous phrase 'Ecrasez l’Infâme!' and what does it represent?

Voltaire's phrase 'Ecrasez l’Infâme!' translates to 'Crush the despicable!' and serves as a rallying cry against superstition, intolerance, and irrational behavior. It encapsulates his lifelong fight against these forces and his dedication to promoting reason, tolerance, and freedom of thought.