Voltaire 
Treatise on Tolerance 

Voltaire’s ‘Treatise on Tolerance’ is a groundbreaking work that delves into the importance of religious tolerance in society. Written in the 18th century, during the Enlightenment period, Voltaire utilizes a combination of philosophical arguments and historical examples to advocate for a more inclusive and understanding approach towards different religious beliefs. The book is written in a clear and persuasive style, making it accessible to a wide range of readers interested in the topic of tolerance. Voltaire’s use of wit and sarcasm adds a unique flair to the text, engaging the reader in a thought-provoking discussion on this crucial subject. Voltaire, known for his advocacy of freedom of thought and expression, was inspired to write ‘Treatise on Tolerance’ after witnessing religious persecution and violence in his own society. His experiences led him to champion the cause of religious tolerance and to challenge traditional beliefs that led to discrimination and conflict. Voltaire’s commitment to social justice and human rights shines through in this powerful work. I highly recommend ‘Treatise on Tolerance’ to readers interested in the history of ideas, religious studies, or philosophy. Voltaire’s eloquent writing and timeless message of tolerance are as relevant today as they were in the 18th century, making this book a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this important topic.

Giới thiệu về tác giả

François-Marie Arouet, known by his nom de plume Voltaire, was a towering figure of the French Enlightenment, a period characterized by an explosion of ideas concerning philosophy, politics, and human rights. Born on November 21, 1694, in Paris, Voltaire was renowned for his wit, his criticism of Christianity, especially the Roman Catholic Church, and his advocacy of freedom of speech, separation of church and state, and civil liberties. He was a prolific writer, producing works in almost every literary form including plays, poetry, novels, essays, historical and scientific works, as well as more than 20, 000 letters and more than 2, 000 books and pamphlets. Voltaire’s ‘Treatise on Tolerance’ is a seminal work that reflects his intellect and commitment to advocating for religious tolerance and rational thought. The book itself was a response to the notorious case of Jean Calas, a Protestant wrongfully executed for the supposed murder of his son. Through this and other texts, Voltaire’s literary style often encompassed sarcasm and wit, alongside a passionate plea for enlightenment principles and humanitarian justice. His influence extends beyond his lifetime, with his works and ideas leaving an enduring legacy on both the French and global stages of literature and human rights advocacy.