No study of Candide is complete without an exploration of the final chapter and Voltaire’s ultimate message. Engage students in a final discussion using storyboard discussion starters. Ask students to come up with their own interpretations of what it means to “cultiver notre jardin” in our own lives today.
Il faut cultiver notre jardin...
Faites des choses simples, sans s’occuper de la philosophie ou des politiques.
Travaillez, pour eviter l'ennui.
S'éloignez de la société pour ne pas se mêler au conflits.
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After reading the final chapter of Candide, try to interpret Voltaire’s ultimate message. While he clearly disagrees with Pangloss's optimism, he allows his protagonist, in the end, to conclude simply that he and his friends must “cultiver notre jardin”. What could this mean?
In a storyboard of 2-4 cells, come up with at least two different interpretations of this line and apply them to our society today. For each interpretation, depict a scene in the modern world that seems to exemplify “cultivating our own gardens”. Above or below each image, explain the advice that you think Voltaire intends his readers to apply to their own lives.
Connect literature with other subjects by designing a project where students apply the theme of “cultiver notre jardin” across disciplines like science, art, or social studies. This helps students see real-world connections and deepens their understanding.
Lead a class discussion where students share ideas for how they can “cultivate their gardens” within their own communities. Encourage practical suggestions such as volunteering, starting a class garden, or supporting local causes.
Ask students to write short journal entries reflecting on ways they can apply Voltaire’s message to their own lives. Provide prompts like, “What is one small action I can take this week to improve my environment or mindset?”
Invite students to create posters or digital collages that visually represent their interpretation of “cultiver notre jardin.” This fosters engagement and allows students to express their understanding beyond writing.
Organize a gallery walk or digital showcase where students present their projects, posters, or journal entries. Encourage peer feedback and celebrate diverse perspectives on Voltaire’s theme.
'Cultiver notre jardin' translates to 'let us cultivate our garden' and is the concluding message in Voltaire's Candide. It encourages focusing on practical, meaningful work and personal growth rather than getting lost in endless philosophical debates or societal conflicts.
Students can interpret 'cultiver notre jardin' as advice to prioritize everyday actions, self-improvement, and community contribution. In a modern context, this might mean caring for one’s mental health, volunteering, or focusing on achievable goals instead of abstract worries.
Teachers can have students create storyboards that show different ways to apply 'cultiver notre jardin' today, lead group discussions on its meaning, or assign reflective essays where students connect the theme to their own experiences.
Voltaire ended Candide with this message to emphasize practical action over empty optimism. He suggests that real happiness comes from productive work and focusing on what we can control, rather than passively accepting adversity or relying on philosophical ideals.
Examples include starting a community garden to bring neighbors together, or dedicating time daily for personal projects and self-care. Both reflect Voltaire’s idea of finding meaning in simple, intentional efforts.