The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss, and analyze the novel "Candide" by Voltaire. Specifically it will discuss Candide's three mentors, Pangloss, Cacambo, and Martin as to their philosophy, personal actions, and individual judgment, and relate these character traits to their solutions to the problem of Candide's fate in Chapter 30. Each of these characters is very important to Candide and his fate at the end of the book. They all influence his life in different ways, and they all create their own form of misery at the end of the book.

             Pangloss is more like Candide than any of his other mentors. Pangloss is Candide's tutor, he is as optimistic and positive, and helps Candide develop these qualities in his own life. He is almost a parody of philosophy in general, because he is optimistic even when his life does not warrant it. He suffers, but he will not admit it or admit it is important to his own version of reality. Pangloss is a philosopher, but he is the opposite of Martin, and serves as a foil to Martin's negativity and bleak outlook on just about everything. This exchange between Pangloss and Candide sums up his character perfectly. Voltaire writes, "'Well, my dear Pangloss,' said Candide to him, 'when you had been hanged, dissected, whipped, and were tugging at the oar, did you always think that everything happens for the best?' 'I am still of my first opinion,' answered Pangloss, 'for I am a philosopher and I cannot retract'" (Voltaire 157-158). Pangloss contributes to Candide's misery at the end of the book because he is the one who first taught Candide to be so optimistic, which did not give him a "real life" view of the world and of love.

             Cacambo is a servant to Candide, but he becomes more of an advisor and friend after he solves problems for Candide. He is honest and straightforward, which are characteristics that will help Candide in his own travels.