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hope that the naïve views that he instilled in Candide may carry on even in the face of so much
misfortune (Voltaire 413). Professor Pangloss continues his reconciliation by reminding Candide
that all the misfortune he has faced has led him to “be sitting here eating candied citron and
pistachios” (Voltaire 413) since according to Professor Pangloss, “everything necessarily serves
the best end” (Voltaire 356). Again, Professor Pangloss is trying to explain to Candide that this is
ultimately where he was supposed to end up.

Candide, being reminded of all the terrible misfortunes that befell him, as well as the
once beautiful Miss Cunegonde now, “with her skin weathered, her eyes bloodshot, her breasts
falling, her cheeks seamed, her arms red and scaly” (Voltaire 410) replies, “That is very well put,
but we must cultivate our garden” (Voltaire 413). Candide’s response is made with what one can
only assume is defeat and sarcasm, and it is as if he is politely telling Professor Pangloss that he
does not wish to be reminded of his misfortunes or love that never was. As Michael Wood states
in “Notes on Candide”, “Cunegonde is the withered goal of Candide’s longing, indeed she is
what happens to all longing that pursues only an idea of a person or a passion” (202). The
vicissitudes that have led Candide to cultivate his garden are based simply on the idea of Miss
Cunegonde and not the love for Miss Cunegonde. It is at this point the realization is made that
Candide has surrendered to his fate and no longer believes Professor Pangloss’s teachings and,
that at least for Candide, the end being served is not necessarily the best end.

As stated above, the loss of Candide’s naïve understanding of the world has given him a
greater sense of enlightenment. I believe Candide realizes that his life could have been much
different had he not been indoctrinated with the teachings of Professor Pangloss and more versed
in matters pertaining to love and of the heart. Fortunately, this enlightenment has made Candide
wiser, but unfortunately, this enlightenment has come too late and made Candide bitter. I do not

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