Voltaire's 'L'Ingénu' (often translated as 'The Huron' or 'The Ingenu') is a short, sharp, and surprisingly funny novel that hasn't lost its bite.

The Story

A young man, raised by the Huron people in Canada, arrives on the coast of Brittany. He's strong, honest, and has no clue about French customs, religion, or polite society. He falls in love with his beautiful godmother, Mademoiselle de Saint-Yves, which causes a scandal because church rules forbid it. His straightforward nature and logical questions constantly embarrass the local priests and officials. When he tries to help defend the region, he's betrayed and thrown into the Bastille prison. The story then follows his brutal education in the ways of the 'civilized' world, and the desperate efforts of his love to free him.

Why You Should Read It

I loved this book because it feels so modern. The Ingénu isn't stupid—he's just rational. Watching him point out the absurdities of 1700s France is like watching a brilliant social critic at work. Voltaire uses him to mock religious dogma, corrupt officials, and pointless bureaucracy. It's not a dry history lesson; it's a lively character-driven story where the satire comes from the situations. You'll laugh, then you'll get angry on his behalf. The ending is bittersweet and powerful, showing the real cost of challenging a broken system.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who enjoys smart satire, historical fiction with a point, or just a great underdog story. If you like books that make you think while you're being entertained, this is a classic for a reason. It's short enough to read in a couple of sittings, but the story and its questions will stick with you much longer.