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Quote by Michel de Montaigne

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Selected essays of Montaigne: in the translation of John Florio

"Selected essays of Montaigne: in the translation of John Florio" is a compilation of essays by Michel de Montaigne, a prominent French philosopher and writer who lived in the 16th century. Montaigne's essays are a significant contribution to the literary and philosophical traditions of his time, offering a unique perspective on human nature, ethics, and the pursuit of wisdom. The essays are characterized by their conversational style, personal anecdotes, and philosophical musings. This edition features a translation by John Florio, a contemporary of Montaigne, which is known for its accuracy and readability. The collection provides readers with an engaging and insightful look into the mind of one of history's greatest thinkers. more

Author

Michel de Montaigne
Michel de Montaigne

Michel de Montaigne was a French Renaissance philosopher, essayist, and writer. He is considered one of the most significant figures in the history of the essay. Montaigne's work, particularly his book 'Essays', has been influential in the development of modern prose. more

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“What we are told of the inhabitants of Brazil, that they never die but of old age, is attributed to the tranquility and serenity of their climate; I rather attribute it to the tranquility and serenity of their souls, which are free from all passion, thought, or any absorbing and unpleasant labors. Those people spend their lives in an admirable simplicity and ignorance, without letters, without law, without king, without any manner of religion.”

“We have no participation in Being, because all human nature is ever midway between being born and dying, giving off only a vague image and shadow of itself, and a weak and uncertain opinion. And if you chance to fix your thoughts on trying to grasp its essence, it would be neither more nor less than if your tried to clutch water.”

“Our thoughts are always elsewhere; we are stayed and supported by the hope for a better life, or by the hope that our children will turn out well, or that our name will be famous in the future, or that we shall escape the evils of this life, or that vengeance threatens those who are the cause of our death.”