“ Marriage happens as with cages: the birds without despair to get in, and those within despair of getting out. “
Quotes by Michel de Montaigne
Introducing Michel de Montaigne
Michel de Montaigne (1533–1592) was a French Renaissance philosopher, writer, and one of the most influential figures in the development of modern essay writing. Born into a noble family in Bordeaux, Montaigne is best known for popularizing the essay as a literary form through his collection Essais, which he began writing in 1572. His works explored human nature, self-reflection, and skepticism, blending personal anecdotes with philosophical discourse. Montaigne’s essays addressed a wide range of subjects, from friendship and death to education and the limits of knowledge. His emphasis on introspection and his belief in questioning societal norms left a lasting impact on both philosophy and literature, influencing thinkers like Descartes, Rousseau, and Emerson. Montaigne’s unique blend of intellectual curiosity and personal reflection makes him a foundational figure in Western thought.