Francois Marie Collection
Francois-Marie Arouet, known by his nom de plume Voltaire, was a prominent French writer and philosopher during the Enlightenment period
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Francois-Marie Arouet, known by his nom de plume Voltaire, was a prominent French writer and philosopher during the Enlightenment period. Born in 1694, he became one of the most influential figures of his time. In 1726, Voltaire experienced an incident that would leave a lasting impact on him - the caning by the lackeys of the Duc de Rohan. This event only fueled his passion for social justice and freedom of speech, which he later advocated for through his writings. Voltaire's literary prowess is evident in various works such as "L'Agent Litteraire, " a play that showcases his wit and satire. His talent extended beyond writing plays; he also dabbled in painting as seen in "Portrait of Voltaire" painted by Augustin de Saint-Aubin. One cannot discuss Voltaire without mentioning his contributions to theater. In "Scene from the tragedy of Semiramis, " we catch a glimpse of his dramatic genius. Additionally, Los Caprichos' plate titled "What one does to another" reflects Voltaire's belief in exposing societal injustices through art. As he aged gracefully, sketches like "Sketches of Voltaire at Age Eighty-One" captured Vivant Denon's admiration for this intellectual giant who continued to inspire even in old age. Voltaire faced opposition throughout his life from individuals like Freron and La Beaumelle but remained steadfast in defending his ideas against their criticisms. These encounters shaped him into an unwavering advocate for free expression. His influence reached far beyond France; even today, people recognize him as a symbol of intellectual liberty and critical thinking. The decoration at Versailles dedicated to theatrical performances serves as a testament to how deeply ingrained Voltaire's legacy is within society. "Melpomene in the Dumps" portrays theatrical monarchs defending child's play - perhaps symbolic commentary on how those with power often overlook the importance of art and culture.