Short Works

Voltaire a prolific writer and philosopher during the Enlightenment produced numerous short works in addition to his longer and more famous works. Some of his notable short works include: Candide (1759):</br></br> Although Candide is often considered a novella or short novel it is relatively short and deserves mention due to its significance. This satirical work follows the adventures of the young man Candide who travels the world and experiences various hardships prompting philosophical reflections on the nature of optimism and human suffering. </br></br> Micromegas (1752): This science fiction short story tells the tale of two extraterrestrial beings a giant from Saturn and a dwarf from one of Jupiters moons who visit Earth and engage in philosophical discussions with humans. The story explores themes of relativity and the limitations of human knowledge.</br></br> Zadig (1747): Zadig is a philosophical tale that follows the life of the protagonist Zadig through various misadventures and challenges. It explores themes of destiny justice and human virtue.