Voltaire (FrançoisMarie Arouet) Quotes

A collection of quotes by Voltaire (FrançoisMarie Arouet).

François-Marie Arouet, widely known by his pen name Voltaire, was a prominent French Enlightenment writer, philosopher, and historian. Born on November 21, 1694, in Paris, France, Voltaire became one of the key figures of the Age of Enlightenment and is celebrated for his wit, his defense of civil liberties, and his advocacy for religious tolerance.

After completing his education at the prestigious Collège Louis-le-Grand, Voltaire pursued a career in law but quickly turned towards writing. Renowned for his sharp wit and satirical style, he produced an extensive body of work across various genres, including plays, essays, poetry, and historical works.

Voltaire championed the values of reason, tolerance, and freedom of thought, often using his writings to critique the social and political establishments of his time. His most celebrated works include the satirical novella "Candide," which sharply criticized philosophical optimism, and his monumental historical work, "The Age of Louis XIV."

Throughout his life, Voltaire actively engaged in philosophical and intellectual debates and used his writings to challenge orthodoxies and advocate for justice. Despite enduring censorship and persecution for his writings, he remained steadfast in his commitment to civil liberties and individual freedom.

Voltaire's influence extended far beyond his lifetime, shaping the philosophical, cultural, and political landscape of the Enlightenment era. His ideas continue to resonate today, making him one of the most important and enduring voices of intellectual thought in Western history. Voltaire passed away on May 30, 1778, in Paris, leaving behind a legacy of intellectual courage and progressive ideas.