Voltaire, pseudonym of François-Marie Arouet (1694-1778), was a towering figure in the Enlightenment era of eighteenth-century Europe. A prolific writer, philosopher, and wit, Voltaire is renowned for his advocacy for civil liberties, freedom of religion, and his criticism of the French Establishment. Voltaire's corpus is wide-ranging, encompassing plays, poetry, novels, essays, historical and scientific works, over 21,000 letters, and an estimated 2,000 books and pamphlets. His sharp pen ventured into satire and polemics, seamlessly blending humor with intellectual critique. Among his many works, 'Candide,' a scathing satire on optimism, is perhaps his most famous novel. The 'Voltaire: Collected Romances: 20+ Novels, Short Stories, Satires & Fables (Illustrated Edition)' provides a comprehensive overview of his literary style that often merged narrative with philosophical thought. Voltaire's influence was vast, and his works were a clarion call for the Enlightenment ideals of rationality, skepticism toward dogma, and faith in progressive change. Beyond the printed word, Voltaire's personal correspondences also showcase his role in shaping the public opinions of his time. He spent his life fighting for a society based upon reason and justice, and his writings continue to resonate with readers, scholars, and free-thinkers around the world.