Introduction
Satire is an example of a literary genre used in art to make a situation or an individual look ridiculous. Raising laughter is intended to humble or embarrass the target subject. It creates moral improvement in some contexts by teaching good societal actions (Rowe 100). Alternatively, some forms of satire express bitterness and mockery of the evils existing in society. This essay demonstrates the use of satire in Candide, how Voltaire highlights cases of injustice in the 18th century and its effectiveness.
The Role of Satire in Candide
Candide utilizes satire in the influential organizations in society, beginning with the military, the churches, and the aristocracy. The theme of religion is criticized when human beings believe that God controls all things that happen. However, as Candide travels throughout the world, he observes evil happenings. He concludes that God does not exist: “The coast was lined with crowds of people, whose eyes were fixed on a fine man kneeling, with his eyes bandaged, on board one of the men of war in the harbor (Voltaire 81).” The religious officials and the leaders watched people do evil, and Candide marked them as foolish.
The theme of politics and power is also satirized, where inconsistency in leadership is demonstrated. Multiple names such as Don Fernando d’Ibarra, Figueroa, Mascarenes, Lampourdos, and Souza are given to the governor of Buenos Aires for pride and vanity. The citizens suffer from leaders who fail to recognize their rights and freedoms. “Among the crew, there were two slaves who rowed very badly, and to whose bare shoulders the Levantine captain would now and then apply blows from a bull’s pizzle (Voltaire 81).” This illustrates the punishments and tortures some individuals faced.
Formal social systems in the novel are satirized, especially class divisions in the community. Authority descriptions in the book, such as the Baron of Westphalia, are also mocked for their misuse of position. The baron was known as the loader, who was very powerful. At the Baron’s and Pangloss’s names, the two galley slaves uttered a loud cry, held fast by the seat, and let drop their oars. The captain ran up to them and redoubled his blows with the bull’s puzzle (Voltaire 46).” Candide experienced this scenario and requested to be given money so that the captives could be set free.
Voltaire‘s Critique of 18th-Century Injustices
Voltaire highlights injustices in the 18th century by criticizing French society. He expresses that the French bourgeoisie was too ineffective and small. In addition to that, the aristocracy seemed parasitic and corrupt. Citizens were tortured and forced to work as enslaved people in the famous social classes. The idea of democracy was misused, and authority was used for individual benefits.
Further, he advocated for freedom of expression, religion, and the separation of the state and church. Evil deeds by the church are demolished. “Can there be two religions?” he asked. “We have, I believe, the religion of all the world: we worship God night and morning (Voltaire 45).” The need for social tolerance could lead to progress in society.
Effectiveness of Voltaire’s Satirical Approach
Voltaire’s ideas are practical since he aims to create a free society where everybody has the right to expression. This context demonstrates a community where sins are committed in almost all social institutions, including the church. After touring around, he sees what is happening and confesses that God does not exist. His attempts illustrate his urge to be in a society that promotes growth in all aspects: spiritually, emotionally, and physically.
Conclusion
In summary, Candide has utilized the concept of satire in his novel to demonstrate various themes. Examples of the setups illustrated include religion, power, politics, and social class. Some members of the society, especially the enslaved people, are mistreated, and this annoys Candide. His efforts to change some life modes are seen throughout the book. According to him, religious leaders should play a significant role in behavior modification and character development. However, this is contrary to the fact that the leaders engage in prostitution.
Works Cited
Rowe, Emily. “Satire, What Is It Good for?” Explorations in Renaissance Culture, vol. 48, no. 1, 2022, pp. 90–119. Web.
Voltaire. Candide and Other Stories. Oxford University Press, 2006.