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Voltaire's Romances, Complete in One Volume   By: (1694-1778)

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Voltaire's Romances, Complete in One Volume presents a collection of captivating stories that provide a timeless glimpse into the world of romance. Although the author of this anthology remains unknown, their ability to craft tales of love, passion, and tragedy is undeniable.

Throughout the book, readers are transported to various settings, ranging from ancient Greece to modern-day France. Each story unfolds with vivid descriptions, engaging dialogues, and well-developed characters. Voltaire's Romances skillfully weaves together themes of love, power, and morality, exploring the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of our actions.

What sets this collection apart is its ability to tackle these universal themes in a consistently thought-provoking manner. While the romances are at times melodramatic, they offer ample opportunity for readers to reflect on the ideals, values, and societal norms of the time. The stories touch upon themes such as class divisions, gender roles, and the clash between personal desire and societal expectations, offering a valuable historical perspective.

The narrative style, though occasionally formal and verbose, is primarily engaging. The author's wit and humor shine through, providing much-needed relief from the sometimes weighty subject matter. Voltaire's Romances strikes a delicate balance between entertaining and enlightening, ensuring that the stories remain accessible to a wide range of readers.

Moreover, the character development in these romances is commendable. From the wide-eyed lovers to the cunning and manipulative individuals, each character is meticulously portrayed, their virtues and flaws laid bare. As readers, we become invested in their stories, experiencing their triumphs and heartaches as if they were our own.

One aspect that may disappoint readers is the absence of a clear authorship. While the collection carries Voltaire's name, the exact authors of these romances remain unknown. This lack of attribution may deter readers who seek a deeper understanding of the author's intentions or context. However, the stories themselves are strong enough to overcome this limitation, standing as key pieces in the canon of romance literature.

In conclusion, Voltaire's Romances, Complete in One Volume is a compelling collection of tales that explores the multidimensional nature of love and its consequences. While the absence of an explicit author may raise questions, the stories themselves showcase the immense talent and ingenuity of the unknown authors. Whether one is seeking engaging narratives, historical insights, or timeless reflections on romance, this anthology provides a satisfying reading experience that will leave readers captivated until the very last page.

First Page:

VOLTAIRE'S ROMANCES

TRANSLATED FROM THE FRENCH.

A NEW EDITION ,

WITH NUMEROUS ILLUSTRATIONS.

[Illustration: M. de VOLTAIRE.]

I choose that a story should be founded on probability, and not always resemble a dream. I desire to find nothing in it trivial or extravagant; and I desire above all, that under the appearance of fable there may appear some latent truth, obvious to the discerning eye, though it escape the observation of the vulgar. Voltaire.

COMPLETE IN ONE VOLUME.

NEW YORK:

PUBLISHED BY PETER ECKLER,

35 FULTON STREET.

1889.

[Illustration: Ancient writing implements, Pompeii.]

PUBLISHER'S PREFACE

Voltaire wrote what the people thought, and consequently his writings were universally read. He wittily ridiculed established abuses, and keenly satirized venerable absurdities. For this he was consigned to the Bastile, and this distinction served to increase his popularity and extend his influence. He was thus enabled to cope successfully with the papal hierarchy, and laugh at the murmurs of the Vatican. The struggle commenced in his youth, and continued till his death. It was a struggle of light against darkness of freedom against tyranny; and it ended in the triumph of truth over error and of toleration over bigotry... Continue reading book >>




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