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Voltaire, the pseudonym of François-Marie Arouet, was a prominent figure of the French Enlightenment, renowned for his sharp wit and incisive critiques of societal norms, particularly those surrounding religion and governance. He championed the ideals of freedom of speech and religion, advocating fo...

Voltaire, the pseudonym of François-Marie Arouet, was a prominent figure of the French Enlightenment, renowned for his sharp wit and incisive critiques of societal norms, particularly those surrounding religion and governance. He championed the ideals of freedom of speech and religion, advocating for the separation of church and state. His literary contributions were diverse, encompassing satire, historical narratives, and philosophical essays, which collectively earned him significant acclaim during his lifetime. Among his most celebrated works is Candide, a novella that not only exemplifies Enlightenment thought but also serves as a critical commentary on optimism and human suffering. Candide follows the misadventures of its titular character, a naive young man raised in an idyllic setting under the optimistic tutelage of Professor Pangloss. Candide's sheltered existence is shattered when he is expelled from the baron’s castle after being caught with Cunégonde, the baron’s daughter. This expulsion thrusts him into a harsh world filled with war, natural disasters, and human cruelty. Throughout his journey across Europe and South America, Candide encounters a series of problems that challenge Pangloss's assertion that "all is for the best in the best of all possible worlds." As Candide sees atrocities such as war, slavery, and natural disasters—including the devastating Lisbon earthquake—his faith in optimism starts to change. Ultimately, after enduring numerous hardships, he concludes that true happiness lies not in philosophical speculation but in practical engagement with life: "We must cultivate our garden." This realization underscores Voltaire's argument against blind optimism and highlights the necessity of addressing real-world issues. Candide holds a significant place in the history of drama and literature due to its pioneering use of satire to critique philosophical ideologies. Voltaire's work challenges the prevailing optimism of his time, particularly that espoused by Leibniz. By employing humor and irony, he exposes the absurdity of philosophical doctrines that ignore human suffering. The novella's themes resonate with audiences today, reflecting ongoing debates about optimism versus realism in facing life's challenges. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749 –1832) Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, born on August 28, 1749, in Frankfurt, Germany, is widely regarded as one of the most significant figures in German literature and a profound influence on Western thought. His extensive career encompassed various roles, including poet, playwright, novelist, scientist, statesman, theatre director, and critic. Goethe's literary contributions are diverse and include plays, poetry, novels, and aesthetic criticism, alongside scientific treatises on topics such as botany and color theory. One of Goethe's most notable works is "The 42 Sorrows of Young Werther," published in 1774. This novel tells the story of Werther, a young artist who becomes infatuated with Lotte, a woman engaged to another man. The narrative captures Werther's intense emotions as he grapples with love and despair, ultimately leading to his tragic end. The book resonated deeply with readers across Europe and sparked what became known as "Werther Fever," where young men emulated the protagonist's style and demeanor. This phenomenon not only catapulted Goethe to fame but also established him as a key figure in the Sturm und Drang literary movement, which emphasized strong emotional expression over rationality. Goethe's impact on literature extends beyond his own works; he played a crucial role in shaping the cultural landscape of his time. After joining the Weimar court in 1775, he became an integral part of a vibrant intellectual community that fostered artistic collaboration. His partnership with fellow writer Friedrich Schiller transformed the Weimar Theatre into a national treasure and solidified their legacies as central figures in German literature. Goethe's exploration of individualism and emotional depth in "Werther" marked a significant evolution in drama and literature. He challenged societal norms and articulated the complexities of human experience, paving the way for future literary movements. His ability to express the struggles of existence and the quest for identity makes him an enduring figure in literary history. Today, Goethe's works continue to be celebrated for their profound insights into the human condition and their lasting influence on literature and philosophy. Victor Hugo 1802 – 1885 Victor Hugo, a prominent 19th-century French author, is best known for his monumental novel Les Misérables, published in 1862. This work has left an indelible mark on literature and drama, reflecting the social and political issues of its time. Hugo is celebrated in France not only as a masterful poet but also as a key figure of the Romantic movement and a symbol of French republicanism. His political beliefs evolved throughout his life; initially a royalist, he later became an ardent supporter of republican ideals, particularly during his exile from France under Napoleon III. Les Misérables is a profound exploration of human suffering, love, and redemption set against the backdrop of early 19th-century France. The narrative centers on Jean Valjean, a man who endures immense hardship after serving 19 years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his sister's children. His journey begins when he is released and encounters Bishop Myriel, who shows him unexpected kindness. This pivotal moment inspires Valjean to seek redemption and change his life. However, he is relentlessly pursued by Inspector Javert, who embodies the unforgiving nature of the law. 43  The climax occurs during the June Rebellion of 1832, where Valjean's courage and compassion shine as he risks everything to save Marius, Cosette’s love.The significance of Les Misérables extends beyond its narrative; it serves as a powerful critique of societal injustices such as poverty, child exploitation, and the failings of the legal system. Hugo’s work has influenced countless adaptations in theater and film, making it a cornerstone of dramatic literature. Its themes resonate with audiences today, highlighting the enduring struggle for justice and compassion in society. Thus, Les Misérables remains not only a literary masterpiece but also an essential commentary on human rights and dignity throughout history. Fyodor Dostoyevsky 1821 – 1881 Fyodor Dostoevsky, a prominent Russian author, is renowned for his profound exploration of philosophical and religious themes, particularly in the context of 19th-century Russia's tumultuous political and social landscape. His literary includes notable works such as Crime and Punishment (1866), The Idiot (1869), Demons (1872), and his final masterpiece, The Brothers Karamazov (1880). Dostoevsky's contributions to literature are vast, comprising 12 novels, four novellas, 16 short stories, and various essays. His works are often hailed as masterpieces, positioning him among the greatest authors in literary history. The Brothers Karamazov encapsulates the essence of Dostoevsky’s literary genius. The narrative revolves around the Karamazov family, particularly the three brothers: Dmitri, Ivan, and Alyosha. Their father, Fyodor Pavlovich Karamazov, is a morally corrupt man whose relationships with his sons are fraught with conflict. The novel unfolds as a murder mystery centered on Fyodor's death, with Dmitri accused of the crime. However, the story transcends mere plot; it delves into complex themes of morality, faith, and existential despair. Each brother embodies distinct philosophical perspectives: Dmitri represents hedonism, Ivan embodies nihilism, and Alyosha reflects Christian existentialism. This interplay of ideologies creates a rich tapestry that explores the human condition and moral dilemmas. Noteworthy passages include Ivan's parable "The Grand Inquisitor," which critiques religious authority and questions divine justice. The significance of The Brothers Karamazov extends beyond its narrative; it is a cornerstone in the history of drama and literature. Dostoevsky’s exploration of psychological depth and moral ambiguity has influenced countless writers and thinkers. His ability to weave intricate character studies with profound philosophical inquiries has left an indelible mark on literature. The novel’s impact 44 resonates through its examination of themes such as free will, guilt, and redemption, making it a timeless classic that continues to inspire discussions on ethics and spirituality in contemporary society. Leo Tolstoy 1828 – 1910 Born to wealthy aristocratic parents who died while he was still young, Tolstoy began his career in writing before serving in the Crimean War. After he this turned to a mixture of teaching and writing, creating what have been labeled two of the great novels in literature: War and Peace, set during the Napoleonic Wars and Anna Karenina. He has been considered a master of human observation, realist fiction and was well-known throughout his life for his moralistic views and opinions. 1. Henrik Ibsen (1828 – 1906) Henrik Johan Ibsen was a Norwegian writer and theatre director who lived from 1828 to 1906. Ibsen is generally referred to as "the father of realism" and one of the most prominent playwrights of his time, as one of the creators of modernism in theatre. After Shakespeare, Ibsen is the most often produced dramatist in the world, and A Doll's House was the most widely performed play in 2006. His major works include Brand, Peer Gynt, and An Enemy of the People, Emperor and Galilean, A Doll's House, Hedda Gabler, Ghosts, The Wild Duck, When We Dead Awaken. Ibsen grew as a person and an artist in a tumultuous relationship with Danish theatre and literature." The societal issues that Ibsen was concerned with belonged unmistakably to the nineteenth century. The psychological concerns that he investigated are the qualities of his literature that appeal the most to modern readers. The social themes he addressed so forcefully in his day, as well as the late-Victorian middle-class setting of his plays, have become antiquated. The fact that they nevertheless have a compelling power whether read or produced attests to his continuing quality as a thinker and dramatist. 2. Franz Kafka (1883–1924) Kafka was born into a middle-class German-speaking Jewish family in Prague, the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia, then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, today the capital of the Czech Republic. Kafka wrote in German and his 45 works have been translated into numerous languages. Kafka is considered one of the most influential writers ever. His classic European literature style tackles many of the diseases of the mind and he embraced philosophies such as existentialism. He was a German-speaking Bohemian novelist and short-story writer who is widely considered one of the most important personalities in twentieth-century literature. His work is a mix of realism and fantastical aspects. It usually contains isolated characters in odd or surreal situations, as well as socio-bureaucratic powers that are beyond comprehension. It's been suggested that it's about alienation, existential anguish, guilt, and absurdity. His best-known works are The Metamorphosis a short tale, and the novels The Trial and The Castle. The term "Kafkaesque" has been coined to characterize events similar to those depicted in his works. Worksheet 2 Chapter 4 List the names of major English language writers and poets that you have studied before in your Literature course according to the following timeline: Compare with development of literature in Europe Era British / English European writers writers 8th/9th Century BCE 6th /7th Century BCE 5th /4th Century BCE 100 BCE to Common Era 1200s 1300s 1400s 1500s 1600s 1700s 1800s 1900s 46