Voltaire had a natural tendency toward euphemism, and examples of this rhetorical device are plentiful in Candide. Doctor Pangloss was inevitably euphemistic as he voiced the clichés of Optimism to prove that even great evil leads to good. In matters relating to Church and State, the euphemistic cliché also served Voltaire's purpose. The account of the Inquisition, for example, provided him with wonderful opportunities for satirical, euphemistic comment. One should recall the almost ceremonial politeness of the dark-skinned inquisitor when he inquired into Pangloss' views at the end of Chapter V. The plight of Pangloss and Candide was described in a manner no less ceremonious (Chapter VI).
"They were separated and each was placed in an extremely cool room where no one was ever bothered by the sun. A week later they were both dressed in sanbenitos and paper mitres. Thus attired, they walked in a procession and heard a deeply moving sermon, followed by beautiful polyphonic music. Candide was flogged in time to the singing, the Biscayan and the two men who had refused to eat pork were burned, and Pangloss was hanged, although this was not customary."
The incongruity of the scene is pointed up by the formal euphemistic terms in which it is described, and so with reference to Cunégonde's experiences as a spectator at the Inquisition (Chapter VIII). The Grand Inquisitor, whose illicit passion for her had been aroused when he saw her at Mass, did her "the honor of inviting her to attend. She had a very good seat" and enjoyed the refreshments served to the ladies between Mass and the executions. It is as if she were attending a fashionable social event!
