The document discusses Voltaire's satirical novel Candide and how it criticizes optimism through the character of Pangloss. Pangloss believes everything is for the best "in this best of all possible worlds," which Voltaire targets for satire. Throughout the novel, Candide and others experience tragedy and horror that undermine Pangloss's philosophy. By the end, even Candide abandons his optimism as he learns the world is imperfect. The document analyzes how Voltaire uses wit and humor to critique prevailing philosophies of his time through the events in Candide.