François-Marie Arouet, more famously known as Voltaire, was a towering figure in the Enlightenment era, celebrated for his wit, satire, and spirited advocacy for freedom of speech and religion. Born on November 21, 1694, in Paris, France, Voltaire was educated by the Jesuits at the Collège Louis-le-Grand. His forays into literature were varied, including poetry, plays, historical and philosophical works, and his prolific correspondence. Voltaire's sharp pen engaged in numerous political and religious controversies, often putting him at odds with authorities and resulting in imprisonment and exile. Despite adversities, Voltaire's relentless pursuit of truth and reason shined through works like 'Candide' and the 'Philosophical Letters', which critiqued injustice and societal follies with a scathing and often humorous tone. His magnum opus, 'The Essential Works of Voltaire', showcases his diverse and influential contributions to literature and thought. Beloved in France and internationally, Voltaire's writings continue to resonate, emphasizing the enduring power of critical thinking and free expression. His legacy is cemented not only through his literary achievements but also through his profound impact on the unfolding of modern philosophical and political ideals.