In 'The Complete Essays', Michel de Montaigne invites readers into his introspective world, where he explores the complexities of human nature, morality, and personal experience. His candid reflections are both timeless and deeply personal, challenging societal norms while championing the value of self-examination. Montaigne's innovative approach to the essay form weaves philosophy with everyday life, making the profound accessible and relatable. Each essay serves as a mirror, reflecting the quirks and contradictions of humanity, compelling readers to ponder their own beliefs and experiences. Venture into Montaigne's rich tapestry of thoughts, and discover why his work remains a cornerstone of literature and thought centuries later.
By Michel de Montaigne
Published: 1993
"The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself."
Michel de Montaigne was one of the most influential figures of the Renaissance, singlehandedly responsible for popularising the essay as a literary form. This Penguin Classics edition of The Complete Essays is translated from the French and edited with an introduction and notes by M.A. Screech. In 1572 Montaigne retired to his estates in order to devote himself to leisure, reading and reflection. There he wrote his constantly expanding 'assays', inspired by the ideas he found in books contained in his library and from his own experience. He discusses subjects as diverse as war-horses and cannibals, poetry and politics, sex and religion, love and friendship, ecstasy and experience. But, above all, Montaigne studied himself as a way of drawing out his own inner nature and that of men and women in general. The Essays are among the most idiosyncratic and personal works in all literature and provide an engaging insight into a wise Renaissance mind, continuing to give pleasure and enlightenment to modern readers. With its extensive introduction and notes, M.A. Screech's edition of Montaigne is widely regarded as the most distinguished of recent times. Michel de Montaigne (1533-1586) studied law and spent a number of years working as a counsellor before devoting his life to reading, writing and reflection. If you enjoyed The Complete Essays, you might like Francois Rabelais's Gargantua and Pantagruel, also available in Penguin Classics. 'Screech's fine version ... must surely serve as the definitive English Montaigne' A.C. Grayling, Financial Times 'A superb edition' Nicholas Wollaston, Observer
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“The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself.”
The Complete Essays
By Michel de Montaigne
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Michel de Montaigne (1533-1592) was a French philosopher and writer renowned for creating the literary form of the essay. His notable works include "Essais," a collection that explores a wide range of subjects, including philosophy, friendship, and the nature of humanity. Montaigne's writing style is characterized by personal reflection, skepticism, and a deep engagement with the complexities of the human experience. He is often regarded as a pioneer of modern skepticism and individualism, influencing countless writers and thinkers throughout history.
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