The Collected Works of Voltaire (eBook)

In 'The Collected Works of Voltaire,' the reader is presented with a comprehensive compilation that traverses the breadth of Voltaire's literary genius. From piquant satires to probing philosophical texts, this collection showcases the diversity of his oeuvre, with famous works such as 'Candide' and 'Zadig' resplendent in their critique of contemporary mores and vibrant storytelling. Voltaire's prose dances with a wit as incisive as it is entertaining, all set against the backdrop of the Enlightenment, a period of intellectual ferment that Voltaire not only inhabited but also helped to define. His plays and poems complement his prosaic endeavors, exuding the same spirit of intellectual audacity and stylistic magnificence, while his historical and critical works reflect the depth of his scholarly pursuits and the acuity of his insights. The esteemed François-Marie Arouet, better known as Voltaire, stands among the luminaries of the French Enlightenment, an era marked by a fervent opposition to the dogmatism of institutional religion and a robust championing of rational inquiry. His acerbic wit and ardent advocacy of civil liberties were not merely the product of his personal convictions but a calculated response to the oppressive political and religious climate of his time. The influence of his extensive travels and correspondences with philosophes across Europe is evident in his body of work, which tirelessly promulgates the ideals of tolerance, reason, and freedom of thought. The withering satire that characterizes his novels and the eloquence fueling his historical narratives stem from a life replete with both controversy and acclaim, demonstrating how Voltaire's personal experiences informed his literary creations. Scholars and aficionados of the Enlightenment alike will find in 'The Collected Works of Voltaire' a treasure trove of enlightenment thought, rendered in the incandescent prose that has earned Voltaire an indelible position in the pantheon of Western literature. This anthology is essential reading for those wishing to immerse themselves in the philosophies that shaped the modern world, conveyed by a master rhetorician whose works continue to resonate with contemporary debates concerning civil liberties, governance, and the role of religion in society. The collection stands as a testament to Voltaire's enduring legacy, inviting readers to engage with ideas that have persisted in their relevance and revolutionary potential, centuries beyond their inception.