Voltaire

'Voltaire 2 Volumes in 1' is a monumental biographical study by the acclaimed critic Georg Brandes, offering a comprehensive exploration of the life, thought, and enduring influence of the preeminent figure of the French Enlightenment. This exhaustive work traces Voltaire’s evolution from a provocative poet and dramatist into the most formidable intellectual force of the 18th century.Brandes meticulously examines the philosopher’s diverse literary output-including works like 'Candide' and his extensive correspondence-while situating his advocacy for civil liberties, religious tolerance, and judicial reform within the broader social and political landscape of Europe. The narrative delves into Voltaire’s complex relationships with contemporary monarchs like Frederick the Great, his formative exile in England, and his tireless crusade against fanaticism and systemic injustice.Part historical narrative and part literary criticism, this biography masterfully captures the spirit of an era defined by the pursuit of reason. Georg Brandes’s scholarly yet accessible prose provides a profound psychological portrait of the man behind the persona, making this an essential resource for readers interested in philosophy, French literature, and the foundations of modern democratic thought.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.