Michel Seigneur De Montaigne

Place: Château De Montaigne

Born: 1533

Death: 1592

Biography:

Michel Eyquem, Seigneur de Montaigne, was a French philosopher, statesman, and writer, best known for his 'Essais', a collection of personal and reflective writings that are considered one of the most influential works of the French Renaissance. Born in 1533 in the Guyenne region of France, Montaigne was educated at the Collège de Guyenne in Bordeaux and later studied law.

Early Life and Education

Montaigne's family was wealthy, and his great-grandfather, Ramon Felipe Eyquem, had made a fortune as a herring merchant. His father, Pierre Eyquem, was a French Catholic soldier in Italy for a time and had also been the mayor of Bordeaux. Montaigne's mother, Antoinette López de Villanueva, was a convert to Protestantism. The family's religious background and Montaigne's education played a significant role in shaping his philosophical views.

Philosophical Works

Montaigne's 'Essais' are a collection of essays that explore various topics, including philosophy, politics, and literature. His writing is characterized by its skepticism, focus on the self, and exploration of the human condition. The Essais de Michel Seigneur de Montaigne are considered one of the most influential works of the French Renaissance. Visit Wikioo.org to learn more about Montaigne's works.

Artistic Influences

Although Montaigne was not a painter himself, his writings have had a significant influence on Western literature and art. The Musee des Collettes in Cagnes-sur-Mer, France, is a museum that showcases the works of Pierre-Auguste Renoir, a celebrated Impressionist painter. Visit Wikioo.org to explore the museum's collection. Key Points:

• Montaigne was born in 1533 in the Guyenne region of France.
• He was educated at the Collège de Guyenne in Bordeaux and later studied law.
• His 'Essais' are a collection of essays that explore various topics, including philosophy, politics, and literature.
• Montaigne's writing is characterized by its skepticism, focus on the self, and exploration of the human condition.
• The Essais de Michel Seigneur de Montaigne are considered one of the most influential works of the French Renaissance.

Legacy

Montaigne's legacy extends beyond his writings. He is considered one of the founders of the essay form and has had a profound influence on French and Western literature. His ideas have been translated into many languages, including English by John Florio in 1603. Visit Wikipedia to learn more about Montaigne's life and works. The Musee National du Chateau de Compiegne in Compiègne, France, is a museum that houses an impressive collection of artworks from various periods. Visit Wikioo.org to explore the museum's collections and learn more about Montaigne's influence on art and literature.