Candide

The narrative follows the young Candide, a student of the overly optimistic Dr. Pangloss, as he embarks on a tumultuous journey through Europe and South America. Faced with relentless misfortunes, Candide grapples with the stark contrast between his mentor's optimistic philosophy and the harsh realities of life. Voltaire employs sharp wit to critique and satirize various societal structures, including romance, science, philosophy, religion, and government, revealing the absurdity of blind optimism in a flawed world.