Candide vs History of the rise and influence of the spirit of rationalism in Europe: Which Should You Read?

Both live on shelves: Enlightenment, Philosophy, History

Cover of Candide

Candide Voltaire · 1746 ★★★★☆ 3.8 148 pages · ≈ 2 h 44 m · Demanding Find on Amazon

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Cover of History of the rise and influence of the spirit of rationalism in Europe

History of the rise and influence of the spirit of rationalism in Europe William Edward Hartpole Lecky · 1865 ★★★★☆ 3.9 408 pages · ≈ 7 h 33 m · Demanding Find on Amazon

The verdict

Ratings are close: 3.8 vs 3.9 — either is a safe pick by score.
Candide is the quicker read — about 2 hours vs 7 for History of the rise and influence of the spirit of rationalism in Europe.

Side by side