Question

Which of the following would most likely have been written by Voltaire? \begin{equation}\begin{array}{l}{\text { F. A treatise criticizing basic concepts of the }} \\ {\text { Scientific Revolution }} \\ {\text { G. A play satirizing religious institutions in }} \\ {\text { France }} \\ {\text { H. A collection of letters mocking the English }} \\ {\text { J. A sentimental poem expounding the virtues }} \\ {\text { of courtly love }}\end{array}\end{equation}

Short answer

Option G: A play satirizing religious institutions in France.

Step-by-step solution

- Understand the Question

The question asks for the most likely work written by Voltaire from the given options. Voltaire was an Enlightenment philosopher known for his criticism of religion, advocacy for freedom of speech, and satire.

- Analyze Option F

Option F suggests a treatise criticizing basic concepts of the Scientific Revolution. While Voltaire supported the Scientific Revolution and criticized superstition and ignorance, he is not primarily known for criticizing scientific concepts.

- Analyze Option G

Option G suggests a play satirizing religious institutions in France. Voltaire often targeted religious institutions and hypocrisy in his satirical works, making this a strong possible answer.

- Analyze Option H

Option H suggests a collection of letters mocking the English. Voltaire did spend time in England and wrote about it, but his tone was more observational rather than purely mocking.

- Analyze Option J

Option J suggests a sentimental poem expounding on the virtues of courtly love. Voltaire is not known for writing sentimental poetry about courtly love; he focused more on satire and philosophy.

- Choose the Best Option

After reviewing the options, Option G is the most likely work written by Voltaire because it aligns with his satirical style and common themes of his writings, such as criticism of religious institutions.

Key concepts

Enlightenment philosophy

Voltaire was a central figure in the Enlightenment, a movement that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional doctrines. Voltaire argued for freedom of thought, religious tolerance, and separation of church and state. He believed that humans could improve society through rational thought and science. He expressed these ideas through various forms of writing, including essays, letters, and philosophical tales.
One of his most famous works, 'Candide', is a satirical novel that critiques blind optimism and the idea that humans live in the 'best of all possible worlds'. Through sharp wit and irony, Voltaire exposed the flaws of society, religion, and government during his time. His commitment to scientific advancements and intellectual discourse also positioned him as an advocate for the scientific revolution of the Enlightenment.
In summary, Voltaire's writings advocated for:

• Freedom of speech and expression
• Religious tolerance
• Separation of church and state
• Rational thought and scientific progress

religious satire

Voltaire often used satire as a tool to criticize religious institutions and dogma. He observed that organized religion frequently hindered progress and perpetuated superstition and intolerance. By ridiculing religious figures and practices, Voltaire aimed to expose the absurdities and corruption within the church.
One prominent example of Voltaire's religious satire is his work 'Candide'. In this novel, numerous characters represent various religious orders, often depicted as hypocritical or corrupt. For instance, the character Pangloss, who embodies blind optimism, mocks the overly simplistic and deterministic views promoted by some religious philosophies.
Voltaire's satirical style was powerful because it made readers question their beliefs and the status quo. He believed in deism, the idea that a rational creator set the universe in motion without dictating its day-to-day operations. This belief stood in stark contrast to the fundamentalist views of his time.
His key themes in religious satire included:

• Critique of religious hypocrisy
• Advocacy for religious tolerance
• Challenge to dogmatism and superstition

French literature

Voltaire is a towering figure in French literature, known for his wit, polemical skills, and versatility as a writer. His works spanned multiple genres such as philosophy, history, drama, and fiction, influencing French and global literature alike.
As a playwright, one of Voltaire's significant contributions is 'Zaïre,' a tragedy that explores themes of religious conflict, love, and betrayal. This work highlighted his ability to tackle serious issues while captivating audiences with emotional depth and dramatic tension.
In addition to drama, Voltaire excelled in prose. His philosophical tales, such as 'Micromegas' and 'Candide,' combined narrative flair with intellectual rigor. These works uniquely blended fiction with philosophical discourse, making complex ideas accessible to a broad audience.
Voltaire's literary genius lay in his:

• Masterful use of satire and irony
• Diverse literary forms including plays, novels, and essays
• Engagement with contemporary social and political issues
• Ability to provoke thought and stimulate intellectual debate

Voltaire's impact on French literature is evident in the way his ideas and style continue to resonate with readers and inspire writers to this day.