Candide is nothing more than a blind optimist and a fool. He relies on blind faith and the philosophy that “this is the best of all possible worlds”. His passive approach to the atrocities that are constant in his life leads me to believe that Voltaire’s intention for his main character is that of comic relief. As the reader, I question this man’s sanity. How can one man take so many beating sand mishaps and still think, “ This is the best of all possible worlds”?
Candide displays his foolishness in typical male form. Cunegonde, the object of his affection, is the main reason why he is in his current state, though one can argue that because of her he was spared the same fate that her family and poor Pangloss have endured. Nonetheless, his blind love for her has put has put him in questionable and deplorable situations. When they are reunited blinded by his love, he kills both Don Issachar and The Grand Inquisitor. This act of irrational thinking has put not only his life in danger, but also the lives of Cunegonde and her servant.
I must commend Candide for his positive outlook on the situations in front of him. Though I admire his efforts, I still think he’s nothing but a fool. What is the point of living if you accept the injustices that are sent your way, suffering quietly in the hopes that “private misfortunes make for public welfare”?
