Zadig
by Voltaire
This novel tells the story of Zadig, a philosopher in ancient Babylon. The author does not attempt any historical accuracy, and some of the problems Zadig faced are finely concealed references to the social and political problems of Voltaire's own era. The book is philosophical in nature and represents human life, independent of man, as it is in the hands of fate. This is the history of religious and metaphysical orthodoxy, both challenged by Voltaire's explanation of the moral revolution that took place in Zadiga himself. Voltaire's skillful use of literary contradiction and juxtaposition techniques is perfectly illustrated in this prose. It is considered one of his most famous works after Candida. (source: Wikipedia)
