Born on this day November 21, 1694, Voltaire, a renowned French philosopher and writer of the Enlightenment period, wielded the power of satire with such skill and precision that his works continue to inspire and provoke thought centuries after his demise. He used this literary device as a potent tool to challenge the established norms of society, religious dogma, and political systems. His satire was not just a means to entertain but a weapon to expose the absurdities of society and advocate for reason, tolerance, and freedom of thought.
Voltaire’s satirical works such as Candide and L’Ingénu exemplify his deft use of irony, humor, and exaggeration to critique the socio-political and religious landscape of his time. These works are characterized by scathing wit and incisive social commentary that underscore his profound skepticism towards blind faith and unthinking adherence to authority. Through his satire, Voltaire sought to stimulate critical thinking, encouraging his contemporaries – and indeed, generations of readers thereafter – to question rather than accept the status quo.
Moreover, Voltaire’s satire extended beyond the pages of his novels. He was known for using his wit in correspondence and conversation, challenging powerful figures of his time with fearless critique. His satirical letters were often directed at those in power, lampooning their follies and thereby highlighting the need for societal reform.
It is notable that Voltaire’s use of satire often invited controversy, even leading to censorship and exile. However, this did not deter him from using satire to express his views. To him, satire was a vehicle for change – a means to inspire revolution in thought and action. Today, Voltaire remains a symbol of the power of satire to challenge and change society, reminding us that humor can be a powerful tool for social commentary and reform.
Azolan
At village lived, in days of yore,
A youth bred in Mahomet’s lore;
His well-turned limbs were formed with grace,
With blooming beauty glowed his face;
His name was Azolan, with care
The Koran he had written fair;
Was on its study ever bent,
To get it all by heart he meant.
From the most early youth his breast
By zeal for Gabriel was possessed;
This minister of the most high
Descended to him from the sky.
‘The zeal that in thy bosom glows,’
Said he, ‘thy guardian Gabriel knows:
To Gabriel gratitude is dear,
To make your fortune I’m come here;
You’ll in short time as first divine
Of Medina and Mecca shine;
This, next to his place who is chief
Of all who hold the true belief,
Is the most high and wealthy station
In holy Mahomet’s donation.
When you your duties once begin,
Honors on all sides will pour in;
But you a solemn oath must make
The whole sex female to forsake;
To lead a life most chaste, and ne’er
But through a grate to view the fair.’
Too hastily the beauteous boy,
That he church treasures might enjoy,
Fell easily into the snare,
Nor of his folly was aware.
Our new-made imam was elate,
Seeing himself become so great;
His joy the salary enhanced,
Which was immediately advanced
by a clerk of important air,
Who with him still went share and share.
No joy can dignity supply,
Nor wealth, should love his aid deny.
Amina fair by chance he spies,
With youthful bloom and charming eyes;
He loves Amina, she in turn
For him feels love’s flame equal burn.
Each morning as the day returned,
The youth, who with love’s flames still burned,
Being by his cursed oath enchained,
Of his sad slavery complained,
Avowing freely in his heart,
That he had played a foolish part.
‘Then, Medina, farewell,’ he cried,
‘Mecca, vain pomp and foolish pride;
Amina, mistress of my breast,
We’ll both live in my village blessed.’
From heaven the archangel made descent,
Severely to reproach him bent:
The tender lover thus replies:
‘Do but behold my mistress’ eyes;
I find of me you’ve made a jest,
I’m by your contract quite distressed;
With all you gave I’ll freely part,
I ask alone Amina’s heart.
The prudent and the sacred lore
Of Mahomet I must adore;
Love’s joys he grants to the elect,
Nay, he allows them to expect
Aminas and eternal love,
In his bright Paradise above.
To heaven again, dear Gabriel, go,
My zeal for you shall still o’erflow;
To the empyrean then repair;
Without my love I’d not go there.’
-Voltaire (François-Marie Arouet)
Curated by Jennifer
