Description
Book Synopsis: A survey of one of the giants of Renaissance thought, The Essays: A Selection collects some of Michel de Montaigne's most startling and original works, translated from the French and edited with an introduction and notes by M.A. Screech in Penguin Classics. To overcome a crisis of melancholy after the death of his father, Montaigne withdrew to his country estates and began to write, and in the highly original essays that resulted he discussed themes such as fathers and children, conscience and cowardice, coaches and cannibals, and, above all, himself. On Some Lines of Virgil opens out into a frank discussion of sexuality and makes a revolutionary case for the equality of the sexes. In On Experience he superbly propounds his thoughts on the right way to live, while other essays touch on issues of an age struggling with religious and intellectual strife, with France torn apart by civil war. These diverse subjects are united by Montaigne's distinctive voice - that of a tolerant man, sceptical, humane, often humorous and utterly honest in his pursuit of the truth. M.A. Screech's distinguished translation fully retains the light-hearted and inquiring nature of the essays. In his introduction, he examines Montaigne's life and times, and the remarkable self-portrait that emerges from his works. 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 Essays: A Selection, you might like Francis Bacon's The Essays, also available in Penguin Classics.
Details
Looking for a thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating read? Look no further than The Essays: A Selection (Penguin Classics). This collection brings together some of Michel de Montaigne's most captivating and innovative works, translated from the original French by M.A. Screech. Delve into the mind of this Renaissance genius as he explores topics such as fatherhood, conscience, society, and even himself. Montaigne's essays are a true testament to his brilliant and inquisitive nature.
One of the standout pieces in this collection is "On Some Lines of Virgil." What starts as a commentary on Virgil's writing style quickly evolves into a daring exploration of sexuality and a groundbreaking argument for gender equality. Montaigne fearlessly challenges societal norms, making this essay both a fascinating historical document and a thought-provoking read for modern audiences.
But Montaigne's essays are not limited to introspection and philosophical musings. His work also delves into the turbulent times of religious and intellectual strife in 16th-century France. As the country grappled with civil war, Montaigne's essays captured the essence of an age filled with conflict and uncertainty. These timeless pieces provide valuable insights into the human condition, even centuries later.
What makes Montaigne's essays truly remarkable is his distinctive voice – open-minded, skeptical, compassionate, and infused with humor. His pursuit of truth shines through every page, making the reader feel like a companion on this intellectual journey. M.A. Screech's masterful translation skillfully preserves the light-heartedness and curiosity of the original text, ensuring an enjoyable and authentic reading experience.
If you're a fan of Montaigne's essays, you'll also find pleasure in Francis Bacon's The Essays, another captivating collection available in Penguin Classics. Expand your literary horizons and indulge in the wisdom of these renowned thinkers.
Don't miss out on experiencing the brilliance of Michel de Montaigne. Immerse yourself in The Essays: A Selection (Penguin Classics) and embark on a journey of self-discovery, enlightenment, and unparalleled intellectual stimulation. Order your copy now and join the ranks of those who treasure the timeless wisdom within these pages. Order here.
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