The Most Ridiculous

The author of Candide frequently uses ridiculous and insane ideas in his story. For example, cutting off half of the poor old woman's rear end to feed the starving soldiers, and how many times she was sold, and re-sold. Now, after Cunegonde and Candide finally find eachother, Cunegonde hesitates at accepting the hand of the rich Governor. Why did she not directly refuse, and why did she not know to say yes or no? I thought that Candide and Cunegonde were in a deep love which was reflected on either side. Why then, does she go to the old lady for advice, whether or not to accept this Governor's hand in marriage? Does she not see that he only loves her for her beauty, and in a couple weeks after fulfilling his lust, he will ditch her? Poor Cunegonde, she does not realize that she is going to be throwing away her life. We are left at the end of the chapter with the old woman's advice to Candide to flee quickly, before he is captured. So, after being together for a little while, the 'lovers' are once again separated. Will their paths be crossed again later in the book?

Interesting Words That Popped Out At Me:

Eloquence p.56

1.the practice or art of using language with fluency and aptness.

2.eloquent language or discourse: a flow of eloquence.

Propensities p.57

1.a natural inclination or tendency: a propensity to drink too much.
2.Obsolete. favorable disposition or partiality.

Sagacious p.58
1.having or showing acute mental discernment and keen practical sense; shrewd: a sagacious lawyer.
2.Obsolete. keen of scent.

Harangued p.58
1.a scolding or a long or intense verbal attack; diatribe.
2.a long, passionate, and vehement speech, esp. one delivered before a public gathering.
3.any long, pompous speech or writing of a tediously hortatory or didactic nature; sermonizing lecture or discourse