Activity Overview
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.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
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.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Excellent 7 Points | Satisfaisant 4 Points | Insuffisant 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-4 Interpretations | The storyboard includes 2-4 logical interpretations of "cultiver notre jardin". Each interpretation is briefly explained in terms of our modern world. | The storyboard includes 2-4 interpretations of "cultiver notre jardin", though some may seem to conflict with Voltaire's general philosophy. Each interpretation is briefly explained. | The storyboard includes only one interpretation of "cultiver notre jardin". Or most interpretations suggest a misunderstanding of the conclusion and Voltaire's message throughout the book. |
| Images | All storyboard depictions show effort and provide a modern scenario that clearly illustrates and strengthens the student's interpretation of "cultiver notre jardin". | Most storyboard depictions show effort and provide a modern scenario that attempts to illustrate the student's interpretation of "cultiver notre jardin". | The storyboard depictions show a lack of effort and/or fail to provide an illustration that reflects the student's interpretation of "cultiver notre jardin". |
| Grammar and Spelling | All sentences and/or dialogue contain correct grammar and spelling (including accent marks) as appropriate for the class level. | Most sentences and/or dialogue contain correct grammar and spelling (including accent marks) as appropriate for the class level. | The sentences and/or dialogue contain many grammatical or spelling errors (including accent marks). |
Activity Overview
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.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
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.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Excellent 7 Points | Satisfaisant 4 Points | Insuffisant 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-4 Interpretations | The storyboard includes 2-4 logical interpretations of "cultiver notre jardin". Each interpretation is briefly explained in terms of our modern world. | The storyboard includes 2-4 interpretations of "cultiver notre jardin", though some may seem to conflict with Voltaire's general philosophy. Each interpretation is briefly explained. | The storyboard includes only one interpretation of "cultiver notre jardin". Or most interpretations suggest a misunderstanding of the conclusion and Voltaire's message throughout the book. |
| Images | All storyboard depictions show effort and provide a modern scenario that clearly illustrates and strengthens the student's interpretation of "cultiver notre jardin". | Most storyboard depictions show effort and provide a modern scenario that attempts to illustrate the student's interpretation of "cultiver notre jardin". | The storyboard depictions show a lack of effort and/or fail to provide an illustration that reflects the student's interpretation of "cultiver notre jardin". |
| Grammar and Spelling | All sentences and/or dialogue contain correct grammar and spelling (including accent marks) as appropriate for the class level. | Most sentences and/or dialogue contain correct grammar and spelling (including accent marks) as appropriate for the class level. | The sentences and/or dialogue contain many grammatical or spelling errors (including accent marks). |
How Tos about Themes in Candide: \"Cultiver notre jardin\"
Integrate 'cultiver notre jardin' into a cross-curricular project
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.
Guide students to brainstorm community-based applications
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.
Facilitate reflective journaling on personal growth
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?”
Encourage creative visual interpretations
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.
Share and celebrate student interpretations
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.
Frequently Asked Questions about Themes in Candide: \"Cultiver notre jardin\"
What does 'cultiver notre jardin' mean in Candide?
'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.
How can students interpret 'cultiver notre jardin' for modern life?
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.
What are some classroom activities to explore the theme of 'cultiver notre jardin'?
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.
Why did Voltaire end Candide with the message to 'cultiver notre jardin'?
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.
What are two modern examples of 'cultivating your own garden'?
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.
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