Overall, a marvellous collection of stories from one of history's great satirists.

Way of the World

Amusing detached view of the evils and benefits of a sophisticated society. Set in ancient India and Persia, but alluding to the situation in 18th century France.

One-Eyed Porter/Cosi-Santa

Amusing llittle stories. Very 18the century in their pre-Victorian relative willingness to talk about sex.

Zadig

Some funny moments, but generally rather dull and far too long - didn't finish this one.

Memnon, or Human Wisdom

A poignant little piece about the relative nature of human misfortunes.

Bababec and the Fakirs

Nice little dig at the sterility of extreme "hair-shirted" religious affectations.

Micromegas

Very early science fiction on the surface, but in essence a philosophical debate about differences in perception and values of different species/races. Reminiscent of the final bit of H G Wells's First Men in the Moon, but more humourous.

Two Recipients of Consolation

Very brief reflection on the nature of grief.

History of the Travels of Scarmentado

Ironic and grimly amusing reflections on the horrors perpetrated by all major religions on unbelievers.

Plato's Dream

Brief reflections on the irrationality of both human behaviour and of the nature of the Earth itself.

Candide

Brilliantly funny account of Candid's adventures and grotesque misfortunes around the world, told in a hilariously breathless fashion that is very appealing.

Story of a Good Brahman

Short piece reflecting on the contrast between contented ignorance and discontented intellectualism.

The Black and the White

Some philopsophical musings that all turn outt to be a dream.

Jeannot and Colin

Simple fable about the nature of true friendship.

Child of Nature

Quite amusing in places, but it is overlong and drags until the fairly tragic ending ends this excellent collection on a fairly memorable note. ( )