Candide is one of the most interesting, and therefore questionable, characters we have encountered this fall. His struggle seems sympathetic; he is kicked unceremoniously from his home, forced to travel without means or money while believing those dear to him have died, and all the while keeps hope of returning to a state of happiness. To me, it seems like Voltaire is making fun of Candide, and in penning the Character, representing the whole human race of his world. Hope is for fools; however, Candide holds on, placing his trust in a divine purpose that he believes will guide him to success:
"Come on then", said Candide, "and let us put our trust in Providence." (p.43)
Is Candide's hope something to admire or look down upon? In today's world, optimism is compared to naivity; someone with Candide's outlook would be considered someone without world experience, and knowledge of life's trials. However, Candide's twist is that he DOES have knowledge of these trials, yet persistently hopes for the best. To me, this kind of 'optimism' is something Voltaire would encourage...while doubting that anyone could accomplish it.
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