Voltaire

In this episode, we focus on François-Marie Arouet, better known as **Voltaire**, the quintessential writer and thinker of the Age of Enlightenment. We will explore the life of this brilliant and provocative figure, whose sharp wit constantly brought him into conflict with the authorities of France. You'll learn how his exile in England shaped his views on liberty and government, and delve into his passionate, lifelong campaigns for religious tolerance and freedom of speech. Finally, we will examine his most famous work, *Candide*, and trace his profound influence on the leaders of both the American and French Revolutions.

Check your understanding

These are the same multiple-choice questions you will see in the Quiz section after you listen to the episode. Use them here to preview or review the answers.

Voltaire was a passionate and lifelong advocate for which key Enlightenment values?

  1. The divine right of kings
  2. Religious tolerance
  3. Absolute monarchy
  4. Freedom of speech
  5. Reason and justice

How did Voltaire's exile in England from 1726 to 1729 significantly influence his work?

  1. It convinced him of the superiority of French absolutism.
  2. He was inspired by England's constitutional monarchy and greater degree of liberty.
  3. He embraced the ideas of English thinkers like John Locke.
  4. It led him to believe that religious freedom was a dangerous idea.
  5. He wrote a book praising the English system which was celebrated by the French monarchy.

What is the central philosophical message of Voltaire's famous satirical novel, *Candide*?

  1. A strong defense of philosophical optimism, arguing that all is for the best.
  2. A historical account of the French Revolution.
  3. A critique of optimism, suggesting people should focus on practical work to improve their lives ('cultivate our garden').
  4. An argument in favor of a stronger, more centralized French monarchy.
  5. A story about the importance of religious faith.

The Calas Affair, a legal case passionately taken up by Voltaire, serves as a powerful example of his fight against what?

  1. The English government
  2. High taxes
  3. Scientific progress
  4. Religious intolerance and injustice

Voltaire's famous slogan, *'Écrasez l'infâme!'* ('Crush the infamous thing!'), was a rallying cry primarily aimed at what he saw as the evils of:

  1. Republicanism
  2. The American Declaration of Independence
  3. Religious fanaticism and superstition
  4. The philosophy of John Locke

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