Many people linger on the purpose of life; What is the goal or purpose of life in the humanities? Different religions offer different insights, yet most believe in being “human.” But what does it mean to be human? Can humans as we know them (human nature) be “human”? Voltaire and Alexander Pope discuss this idea of ​​human nature and the essence of life as they perceive it in "Candide" and "An Essay on Man" respectively. Although Alexander Pope and Voltaire present contrasting views of man's purpose, both Pope and Voltaire characterize humans as greedy, selfish, and constantly dissatisfied beings. Pope and Voltaire present many aspects of life, such as social hierarchy, knowledge, and religion, but they discuss them in quite different ways and perspectives. The Pope believes in the mechanical lifestyle; human beings have a set role and position in life and should not seek to elevate themselves, but rather maintain and fulfill their positions. Voltaire, on the other hand, presents life as free will, in which human beings should make their own choices. Pope discusses his vision of life and human nature in poetic form, dividing stanzas into different metaphors, emphasizing certain aspects of human nature and life at the same time. Furthermore, Pope goes into detail and questions men's curiosity and mocks why they "ask thy mother earth, why are the oaks made / Taller or stronger than the weeds they shade?" (41) With his mocking attitude, Pope is trying to convey his personal thoughts on the human quest for knowledge, Pope hates this. The Pope explicitly states that “the great chain, which brings everyone to agreement, /And the supports pulled, supported by God, or by you?” (41) Once again the Pope questions man, his actions and his beliefs. In the context of the text surrounding the quote, Pope i... in the center of the paper... Voltaire's essay and opinion on the matter. Pope and Voltaire write to condemn man, his prejudices, greed, ego and everything that defines man, destroying the belief in a perfect world. Contrary to Pope, however, Voltaire believes that society should mix, change, and transform, exactly the things Pope reviles and loathes in his poetry. Although “Candide” and “An Essay on Man” covered similar topics, there were many contrary ideas presented, such as the purpose of man, and many concurring ideas, such as the characterization of humans as generally abominable and greedy beings. The message I get from the combination of both authors is; humans are naturally greedy, selfish and jealous beings, however, with their own will, they can overcome all these feelings. A strong will can overcome many hopeless situations. Works Cited An essay on Candide Man