One of France's great Renaissance thinkers, Montaigne was remarkably modern in his views. These highly readable essays reflect his thoughts on poetry, philosophy, theology, law, literature, education, and world exploration. Filled with aphorisms and anecdotes, enlivened by wordplay and a delightful folksiness, they constitute a celebration of literacy, friendship, and joie de vivre.

Author Biography

French writer and thinker Michel de Montaigne (1533-92) did much to popularize the essay as a literary form. His contributions to the genre offer a engaging balance of intellectual knowledge and personal anecdote.