The Influence of Pangloss’ Philosophy on Candide’s Worldview

 
Being young and naïve, Candide never expressed doubts in his mentor’s optimistic philosophy, although it was absurd in many situations they experienced. As the character grows up and their friendship with Pangloss evolves, the man expresses doubts about the correctness of the mentor’s perceptions and positive worldview. For example, the situation with the earthquake shocked the main character and made him wonder about the nature of evil (Voltaire, 1990). As a result, the frustrated Candide concluded that the evil was completely random in nature. Moreover, he could not believe that such a catastrophe could happen in the best world. Thus, the earthquake prompted Candide to question the philosophy of optimism, as his teacher declared that this world was the best of all possible.

To conclude, Voltaire’s novel pays attention to the evolving companionship between Candide and Pangloss and its transformation from the mentor-mentee relationship to a real friendship. At the beginning of the story, Pangloss serves as the tutor to Candide and uses his authority to impose his optimistic philosophy on the student’s worldview. However, as the relationship develops, the teacher demonstrates his loyalty and commitment by supporting the companion in his suffering and misfortunes. On the other hand, Candide takes action to liberate Pangloss from slavery in Turkey, which obligates the teacher to express sincere gratitude to the student. Evolution in the interactions between the characters demonstrates growing friendship that explains the reasons for their sacrifices for each other. In addition, Candide gains his own vision of life and genuine truth after he stops perceiving Pangloss as his mentor. Being in an equal relationship with the teacher, the main hero questions the correctness of optimistic philosophy and develops his own perceptions of the world.