Quote by Voltaire

The shrieks were coming from two quite naked girls, who were pursued by a pair of apes snapping at their bottoms. [...] So he now raises his double-barrelled Spanish rifle, fires and kills both apes. 'God be praised, my dear Calambo! I have delivered these two poor creatures from grave peril; if it was a sin to kill an Inquisitor and a Jesuit, I have made ample amends by saving the lives of two girls [...]'He was about to continue, but words failed him when he saw the two girls throw their arms lovingly around the two apes and collapse in tears over their corpses, filling the air with the most pitiful lamentations. 'I was not expecting quite so much tenderness of heart,' he said at last to Cacambo, who replied: 'You've excelled yourself this time, Master; you have just despatched the two lovers of these young ladies.' '-Their lovers! Is it possible? You're making fun of me, Cacambo; how could anyone believe in such a thing?' - 'My dear Master,' retorted Cacambo, 'you are always astounished by everything; why do you find it so strange that in some countries it is apes who enjoy the favours of young ladies? After all, they are one-quarter human, just as I am one-quarter Spanish.

Summary

This quote from Voltaire's Candide highlights the satirical commentary on human behavior and societal norms. The protagonist, believing he has rescued two girls from danger, discovers they were actually in a relationship with the apes he just killed. Through this scene, Voltaire critiques the arbitrary and irrational nature of moral and cultural standards. It emphasizes the absurdity and ignorance of the characters, revealing the underlying biases and judgment in their reactions. Voltaire's message implies that societal norms are often rooted in baseless assumptions and the perpetuation of stereotypes.