A Philosophical Dictionary, Volume 07

Voltaire’s Philosophical Dictionary offers a lively tour through the ideas that shaped the Enlightenment, presented in a fresh translation that keeps the original wit while speaking to today’s listeners. Each entry is a compact essay, ranging from ethics and religion to politics and the arts, and the accompanying notes illuminate the historical context and the author's playful sarcasm. The volume is enriched with rare engravings and modern commentary that bring the 18th‑century discourse to life.

The entry on Joseph, for example, treats the biblical story as a lens for examining human virtue, jealousy, and the power of dreams. Voltaire juxtaposes the ancient narrative with sharp observations about justice, loyalty, and the folly of false accusations, inviting listeners to reflect on timeless moral dilemmas. Illustrated plates and scholarly introductions guide the ear through the layers of myth, philosophy, and cultural history.