Memnon ou la sagesse humaine

Name: Memnon ou la sagesse humaine
Author: Voltaire

By Voltaire

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French Literature Philosophy & Ethics

About This Book

A man resolves to achieve perfect wisdom by suppressing passion, living soberly, keeping modest desires, and trusting secure finances. His plans unravel when he is drawn to console an afflicted young woman, becomes emotionally involved, and is forced to pay an armed relative; later he seeks distraction with friends, drinks, gambles, is wounded, and finds his funds compromised by a fraud. Each corrective measure breeds fresh excesses, and the narrative follows a sequence of missteps that expose the gap between rational schemes and persistent human weakness.

About the Author

Voltaire

Voltaire, born François-Marie Arouet in 1694, was a prominent French Enlightenment writer, historian, and philosopher known for his wit and advocacy of civil liberties. His works often challenged the established norms of society and religion, making him a key figure in the development of modern thought. Among his most notable works is "Candide," a satirical novella that critiques optimism and explores the nature of human suffering. Voltaire's extensive writings, including his multi-volume "A Philosophical Dictionary," reflect his commitment to reason, tolerance, and freedom of expression, leaving a lasting impact on literature and philosophy.