Books by Voltaire
“This book is a series of short squibs on different topics all, broadly speaking, concerning the Bible and the history of the church, and all designed to make you reflect on what pious Catholics thought were absolute certainties. There’s an absurdist side to Voltaire’s humour that is very modern and completely speaks to us.” Read more...
Nicholas Cronk, Literary Scholar
“Voltaire is a global writer because of Candide; it has been translated into every possible language, both western and eastern. It has a huge resonance and was a bestseller right from the minute it was published.” Read more...
Nicholas Cronk, Literary Scholar
Interviews where books by Voltaire were recommended
Short Classic Books
Classic books have stood the test of time and continue to appeal to new readers, but they can feel intimidating. Whether you want to ease your way into classic literature by starting with shorter books, don’t have much time to read, or simply admire writers who are able to say more with less, below is a list of short classic books recommended by experts on Five Books over the years.
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1
Voltaire Almighty: A Life in Pursuit of Freedom
by Roger Pearson -
2
A Pocket Philosophical Dictionary
by John Fletcher (translator) & Voltaire -
3
The Newton Wars and the Beginning of the French Enlightenment
by J. B. Shank -
4
Candide
Voltaire, translated by Roger Pearson -
5
Reinventing Voltaire: The Politics of Commemoration in Nineteenth-Century France
by Stephen Bird
The Best Voltaire Books, recommended by Nicholas Cronk
The Best Voltaire Books, recommended by Nicholas Cronk
The eighteenth-century philosopher wielded his powers of ridicule and witticism against religious fanatics—but always championed free speech and religious toleration. He was also a historian, scientist, poet, playwright, and political activist. Nicholas Cronk, General Editor of the Complete Works of Voltaire gives a detailed look at the polymathic philosophe.
