Candide, ou l'optimisme

A young, idealistic gentleman is educated in a sheltered castle, where he absorbs the philosophy that “all is for the best in the best of all possible worlds.” When a sudden upheaval forces him into exile, his innocent optimism collides with war, natural disaster and a bewildering string of misfortunes. The narrative follows his bewildered wanderings across continents, introducing a cast of eccentric characters who each embody the absurdities of the age.

Through witty, fast‑moving satire, the story probes the clash between lofty philosophical doctrines and harsh reality. As the protagonist confronts betrayal, famine, and the chaos of human folly, his unwavering hope is both mocked and tested. Listeners will be drawn into a lively, thought‑provoking adventure that questions whether optimism can survive a world that constantly defies it.