Guide Mentor

Character Role Analysis

Pangloss

He may not be a very good guide, but he sure takes his mentoring position very seriously.

As the principle source of Candide’s worldview and knowledge, Dr. Pangloss is the primary guide and mentor in Candide. While typical mentors tend to help the protagonist with their advice, Pangloss has the opposite effect on Candide.

Although Candide looks to Pangloss as an utter genius, Pangloss’s completely unfounded worldview and obsession with philosophy cause Candide to deny his instinct and his observations, and even force him toward extra danger and calamity.

Cacambo, Martin, and the Old Woman periodically function as (better) guides to help Candide avoid trouble, but Pangloss remains the main contender for this title.