Candide, by Voltaire, is a novel about an illegitimate nephew of a German baron. Candide grew up under the influence of Pangloss, a philosopher that believed that everything happens for a better good. He was then banished from his home due to a kiss from the baron’s young daughter, Cunégonde. The banishment of Candide was the start of his journey around the world. The characters from Candide are depicted and portrayed by the people in the society Voltaire lives within.

Through out the novel, Candide encounters many people. At one point in the novel, Candid escapes to Holland. While in Holland, he comes across a Protestant orator who was telling others about the values of charity. The orator then asks Candide if he believes if the pope is the Antichrist. After the discussion, the orator curses Candide and leaves him to hunger. Later Candide meets Jacques, an Anabaptist, who takes him and gives him a place to stay. Voltaire lives in a society that is centered on religion; however Voltaire does not conform to society. Voltaire’s character, Jacques, is a man isolated due to his different beliefs.

In the beginning of the novel, Candide meets Pangloss. Pangloss is Candide’s tutor and is a philosopher. He believes that everything that happens, happens for the best. Despite Pangloss’s own experiences contradicting his own belief, he still remains faithful and Candide admires him. Voltaire’s character Pangloss, is mocking the overly optimistic Enlightenment philosophers of this time.

Furthermore, as Candide continues his journey he comes across the Grand Inquisitor, Don Issachar, and Cunégonde. At this time, the grand Iquiuitor and Don Issachar are fighting over Cunégonde. Cunégonde belongs to both and is shared between them, however as time goes by they fight over her.