what is voltaire known for

Voltaire, whose real name was François-Marie Arouet, was a prominent figure of the French Enlightenment and is best known for his literary works, philosophical ideas, and advocacy for freedom of speech and religion. He was a versatile and prolific writer, producing works in various literary forms, including plays, poems, novels, essays, and histories. Voltaires most famous work is the satirical novella "Candide," which is considered one of his greatest achievements. He was also known for his criticism of Christianity, especially the Roman Catholic Church, and his advocacy for freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the separation of church and state. Voltaires writings vigorously propagated an ideal of progress and he was a courageous crusader against tyranny, bigotry, and cruelty. He was also an advocate of civil liberties and was at constant risk from the strict censorship laws of the Catholic French monarchy. Voltaires impact on the Enlightenment era and his defense of rationalism and tolerance have made him a cultural icon, symbolizing the values of the Enlightenment and the defense of reason. His legacy continues to be held in worldwide repute, and he is widely considered one of Frances greatest Enlightenment writers.