THEMES

Major Theme

"Evils in Society" is a major theme in Candide. Voltaire has satirized and exposed evils like snobbery, cruelty, selfishness, and immorality. In the first chapter it is are told how Candide is thrown out of the Baron’s castle. After that he sees various evils during his adventures. Another major theme is the theme of love. There is tremendous love between Candide and Cunégonde, although much is not written about it. The love for Cunégonde pervades Candide’s thought’s throughout the novel.

Minor Theme

The theme of goodness is very important although it is a minor theme. It is necessary for giving a true picture of the society. Thus through the elements of goodness, Voltaire has rightly pointed out that despite numerous evils, the world is not totally devoid of goodness. Another minor theme is the snobbery in society. Voltaire has shown in a satirical manner the ridiculous snobbery that exits among the rich and so-called upper class people. It is seen in the BaronÂ’s family and also among the dethroned kings who still continue to be referred to as kings and highnesses even when they have lost almost everything.

MOOD

The mood of Candide is that of sadness interspersed with humor to make it lighter. There are times when the reader is shocked at the eerie incidents. Amidst the tragic happenings, the mood is also romantic. The hero goes through various places and many adventures. He meets many people. All the time he is yearning to find and achieve Cunégonde. There is laughter in Candide but it is scornful laughter rather than the laughter of joy.

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