Candide

One of the world's great satires since its first publication in 1759. Witty, caustic skewering of romance, science, philosophy, religion, government -- nearly all human ideals and institutions.

One of France's most celebrated citizens, Voltaire (1694-1778) is best known for his satirical novel Candide. His political treatises, which frequently put him at odds with the church and state, continue to exercise enormous influence on political theorists, philosophers, educators, and historians.