The Life of Voltaire

A Definitive Portrait of a Revolutionary Mind

The Life of Voltaire is a celebrated biography written by the English author Evelyn Beatrice Hall under the pseudonym "S. G. Tallentyre." Published in 1903, the book has long been considered a standard work for its engaging and accessible account of one of the most brilliant and controversial figures of the Enlightenment. Hall’s biography paints a vivid portrait of Voltaire, the French philosopher, writer, and historian who became a tireless advocate for reason, tolerance, and justice. The work is notable for its lively narrative, which brings Voltaire's complex personality and turbulent life to the forefront.

From Paris to Exile and Back Again

The book chronicles Voltaire's extraordinary journey, from his early days as a witty and rebellious satirist in Paris to his frequent periods of exile and his intellectual clashes with both the French monarchy and the Catholic Church. Hall details his famous imprisonments in the Bastille, his time in England where he was influenced by the works of Locke and Newton, and his long sojourn in Geneva. The biography captures his fiery intellect and his relentless pursuit of reform. Hall’s writing is both scholarly and highly readable, weaving together historical facts, personal anecdotes, and excerpts from Voltaire’s own voluminous correspondence to create a full and compelling picture of the man.

A Lifelong Fight for Reason and Justice

A central theme of the biography is Voltaire's unwavering commitment to fighting for individual liberties and religious tolerance. Hall’s narrative highlights his famous campaigns for justice, such as his tireless efforts to exonerate Jean Calas, a Protestant wrongly convicted of murder. Through these accounts, the book solidifies Voltaire’s reputation as a champion of free speech and an enemy of superstition and tyranny. The enduring appeal of this biography lies in its ability to inspire readers with the story of a man who used the power of his pen to challenge authority and fight for a more just world.