Candide

St Augustine's Treatise on the City of God by Saint Augustine of Hippo. After the storming and the sack of Rome by the Goths under their king, Alaric, the worshippers of false gods or heathen, as we call them, tried to prove that this calamity was due to the Christian religion, and began more fiercely and bitterly than ever to blaspheme the true God. This it was that kindled my zeal for the House...

On The Predestination Of The Saints by Saint Augustine of Hippo. Wherein the truth of predestination and grace is defended against the semi-Pelagians — those people to wit, who by no means withdraw altogether from the Pelagian heresy, in that they contend that the beginning of salvation and of faith is of ourselves; so that in virtue, as it were, of this precedent merit, the other good gifts of Go...

Blue Island by W. T. Stead. Ten years after the Titanic went down, W.T. Stead's daughter Estelle published The Blue Island: Experiences of a New Arrival Beyond the Veil, which purported to be a communication with Stead via a medium. In the book, Stead describes his death at sea and discusses the nature of the afterlife. The manuscript was produced using automatic writing, and Ms. Stead cited as pr...

Commentary on the Epistle to the Colossians by John Calvin. Accordingly, not long after this Epistle was written, three Churches of great renown perished by a mournful as well as horrible occurrence—a bright mirror truly of divine judgment, if we had but eyes to see it. The Colossians had been, not indeed by Paul, but with fidelity and purity by Epaphras and other ministers, instructed in the gosp...

Spirit of the Curé of Ars by Alfred Monnin. St. Jean-Baptiste Marie Vianney (known in English as St. John Vianney), was a French priest that lived from 1786-1859. He would later become famous as the Curé of Ars. Despite notoriously little formal education, he inspired an untold number to convert to the Catholic Faith, through the way that he spoke both passionately and simply, and the way that he...

Voltaire and the French Enlightenment by Will Durant. In this Little Blue Book Number 512, Will Durant describes François-Marie Arouet, the writer, historian, and philosopher known as Voltaire (1694-1778) as "unprepossessing, ugly, vain, flippant, unscrupulous, even at times dishonest" and "tirelessly kind, considerate, ...as sedulous in helping friends as in crushing enemies." "My trade is to say...

Preparations for Sufferings by John Flavel. That sufferings, both bodily and mental, are the lot of humanity, the testimony of scripture and reason abundantly confirm. But whatever may be their nature or their intensity, the mind well-grounded in the hope of a glorious immortality through faith in the merits of the Redeemer, and looking at the glory that shall follow, will “hold out stedfast unto...

Treatise of the Fear of God by John Bunyan. This episode includes AI-generated content.

Candide is a relentless, brutal assault on government, society, religion, education, and, above all, optimism. Dr. Pangloss teaches his young students Candide and Cunegonde that everything in this world is for the best, a sentiment they cling to as the world steps in to teach them otherwise. The novel is brilliant, hilarious, blasphemous. . . and Voltaire never admitted to writing it. This episode...

Candide is a relentless, brutal assault on government, society, religion, education, and, above all, optimism. Dr. Pangloss teaches his young students Candide and Cunegonde that everything in this world is for the best, a sentiment they cling to as the world steps in to teach them otherwise. The novel is brilliant, hilarious, blasphemous. . . and Voltaire never admitted to writing it. This episode...

"Short Stories From Life-Various" invites listeners to explore a rich tapestry of narratives that reflect the complexities of human experience. Each story captures moments of joy, sorrow, and everything in between, offering profound insights into the nature of life itself. This collection resonates with timeless themes of resilience, love, and the quest for meaning, making it a compelling listen f...

"Common Sense, How to Exercise It" by Yoritomo Tashi delves into the essential principles of applying common sense in everyday life. This insightful work emphasizes the importance of practical reasoning and the ability to navigate complexities with clarity and sound judgment. Its themes of rational thought and the value of discernment remain relevant today, as individuals face an overwhelming amou...

Thy Soul Shall Bear Witness! by Selma Lagerlöf is a profound exploration of the human spirit and the moral dilemmas we face. This work delves into themes of faith, truth, and the quest for meaning, making it a timeless piece that resonates with listeners today. Lagerlöf's poignant narrative invites reflection on the nature of belief and the importance of standing witness to our own convictions. As...

"Essay on Crimes and Punishments" by Cesare Beccaria and Voltaire delves into the philosophy of justice, exploring the nature of crime and the rationale behind punishment. This seminal work challenges the prevailing notions of justice in its time, advocating for a more humane and rational approach to law and order. Its themes of fairness, the importance of evidence, and the critique of arbitrary p...

Hunger by Knut Hamsun delves into the struggles of a young writer grappling with poverty and existential despair in a bustling city. This haunting narrative captures the raw essence of human desire, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of meaning amidst adversity. Hamsun's exploration of hunger—both physical and spiritual—resonates deeply today, reminding us of the universal quest for fulfillment...

"Letters Written During a Short Residence in Sweden, Norway and Denmark" by Mary Wollstonecraft is a compelling collection of personal reflections and observations from her travels through Scandinavia. This work captures her experiences and insights into the landscapes, cultures, and societies she encountered, offering a unique perspective on the human condition and the quest for understanding. Wo...

"Studies in Pessimism" by Arthur Schopenhauer delves into the darker aspects of human existence, exploring themes of suffering, desire, and the inherent challenges of life. Schopenhauer presents a compelling argument for embracing a pessimistic worldview, suggesting that acknowledging life's hardships can lead to a deeper understanding of our existence. This philosophical work is particularly rele...

"Midlander-Booth Tarkington" invites listeners into the rich tapestry of American life through the lens of one of its most celebrated authors. Tarkington's keen observations and vivid storytelling capture the essence of Midwestern values, exploring themes of identity, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. This audiobook resonates today as it reflects the timeless struggle between personal aspira...

"Letters on England" by Voltaire offers a keen observation of English society, culture, and politics through the lens of a French philosopher. This collection of letters reflects Voltaire's sharp wit and critical perspective, making it a timeless exploration of Enlightenment ideals. It delves into themes of tolerance, freedom of thought, and the contrast between different cultures, all of which re...

Liliecrona's Home by Selma Lagerlöf is a poignant exploration of the human experience, reflecting on themes of belonging, community, and the intricacies of home. This timeless narrative invites listeners to contemplate the essence of what it means to create a sanctuary amidst life's challenges. Lagerlöf's rich storytelling and vivid imagery resonate deeply, reminding us of the universal quest for...

Journey to the Interior of the Earth by Jules Verne invites listeners on an extraordinary expedition beneath the Earth's surface, showcasing the wonders and mysteries that lie hidden from view. This classic tale captures the spirit of adventure and the unquenchable thirst for knowledge that defines humanity's quest for understanding. Verne's imaginative narrative not only entertains but also promp...

H.M.S. Pinafore; Or, The Lass That Loved A Sailor by W. S. Gilbert is a delightful operetta that explores themes of love, class, and the absurdities of social hierarchy through the story of a young woman who falls for a sailor. This timeless tale showcases the humor and wit of Gilbert's writing, making it a captivating listen for audiences today. The operetta's exploration of romance across social...

Bacteria in Daily Life by Grace Coleridge Frankland explores the intricate role that bacteria play in our everyday existence, shedding light on the often-overlooked significance of these microorganisms. This insightful work delves into how bacteria influence various aspects of life, from health to the environment, emphasizing their essential functions and interactions. Hearing this audiobook now a...

O Pioneers! by Willa Cather is a poignant exploration of the struggles and triumphs of immigrant farmers in the American Midwest, capturing their deep connection to the land and the challenges they face in cultivating it. This timeless narrative delves into themes of resilience, identity, and the pursuit of the American Dream, highlighting the indomitable spirit of those who seek a better life. It...

"Home-Maker" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher explores the complexities of domestic life and the profound impact of a woman's role within the home. This timeless narrative delves into themes of motherhood, personal fulfillment, and societal expectations, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of women in their pursuit of identity and purpose. Its exploration of the balance between personal aspirations an...