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- Martin believes that the world is inherently evil, that any semblance of good is fleeting, and that even what appears happy is undoubtedly not: "I have seen the worst," Candide replied. "But a wise man, who since has had the misfortune to be hanged, taught me that all is marvelously well; these are but the shadows on a beautiful picture."
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Martin, the pessimist to Pangloss’s optimist, discusses philosophy at length with Candide as the two sail to France. He claims to be a Manichean—a believer in two equal spirits of Good and Evil that struggle to gain control of the universe.
- Martin Character Analysis in Candide
Why does Candide ultimately marry Cunégonde? What does...
- Martin Character Analysis in Candide
Why does Candide ultimately marry Cunégonde? What does Candide mean by “cultivate our garden”? How does Candide reflect Enlightenment principles?
Martin embodies the polar opposite of Pangloss's and Candide’s philosophical views. Martin believes that the world is inherently evil, that any semblance of good is fleeting, and that even what appears happy is undoubtedly not: "I have seen the worst," Candide replied.
When the coast of France is in sight, Candide asks Martin if he has ever been to Paris. Martin says he has, and describes his previous encounters with the French and his disgust at what he calls their lack of manners. Candide asks Martin why the world was made, and Martin replies, “To make us mad.”
“But is there not a pleasure,” said Candide “ in criticizing everything, in pointing out faults where others see nothing but beauties?” “That is to say,” replied Martin, “that there is some pleasure in having no pleasure.”
Martin responds sarcastically, asking if Candide believes “that hawks have always eaten pigeons.” Candide responds that there is a difference: men have free will. The voyage back to Europe is a mirror image of the voyage to the New World.
Candide says Martin must be kidding him, as there are no more Manicheans left in the world. Martin claims he has spoken the truth; though he does not know what to do, he cannot think any...
