Michel de Montaigne

Date of Birth: February 28, 1533

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: September 13, 1592

Biography

Michel de Montaigne, born Michel Eyquem de Montaigne, was a notable French Renaissance philosopher known for popularizing the essay as a literary form. He was born on February 28, 1533, in the Château de Montaigne, near Bordeaux, France, into a wealthy family. His father, Pierre Eyquem, was a wealthy merchant and his mother, Antoinette de Louppes, was of Spanish-Portuguese Jewish descent. Montaigne’s education was meticulously planned by his father, who arranged for him to speak only Latin until the age of six, to ensure he would master the language. He later attended the Collège de Guyenne in Bordeaux, one of the best educational institutions of the time, and studied law in Toulouse. Montaigne served as a counselor in the Bordeaux Parliament and later as its mayor. In 1571, after the death of his father, Montaigne retired to his family estate to manage his affairs and to dedicate himself to writing. It was during this period that he wrote his seminal work, “Essays” (Essais), which explored a wide range of topics, including human nature, society, and knowledge. The work is notable for its conversational style and the exploration of the author’s personal thoughts and experiences. Michel de Montaigne died on September 13, 1592, at his château. His “Essays” remain a significant contribution to literature and philosophy, influencing countless writers and thinkers in the centuries that followed.

5 Interesting Facts about Michel de Montaigne

1. Michel de Montaigne’s “Essays” were one of the most significant influences on the development of modern skepticism.

2. Montaigne’s father hired a German tutor who spoke only Latin to ensure that Michel learned the language as his first language.

3. He served as the mayor of Bordeaux from 1581 to 1585.

4. Montaigne traveled extensively throughout Europe, including Germany, Switzerland, and Italy, and documented his travels in his “Travel Journal.”

5. He was deeply influenced by the works of classical authors, especially Plutarch and Seneca, and often referenced them in his “Essays.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Michel de Montaigne

1. “The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself.”

2. “There is no knowledge so hard to acquire as the knowledge of how to live this life well and naturally.”

3. “A man who fears suffering is already suffering from what he fears.”

4. “I prefer the company of peasants because they have not been educated sufficiently to reason incorrectly.”

5. “Lend yourself to others, but give yourself to yourself.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While there are no exact records of Michel de Montaigne’s net worth, he was born into a wealthy family and inherited a considerable estate. His affluent background allowed him the leisure and means to retire early and dedicate himself to writing.