Questions About How to Live: A Life of Montaigne in One Question and Twenty Attempts at an Answer

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Answered Questions (1)

Would it be best to read the Essays first, or to start with this book first and then the Essays?

Pierre Jacomet I think this book is a good read in that it provides context as to the life and times of Montaigne. As such, it will be useful and provide perspective…moreI think this book is a good read in that it provides context as to the life and times of Montaigne. As such, it will be useful and provide perspective to the essays. Keep in mind that the essays were written around 1570 in a period of turmoil in France. I think Montaigne wrote them originally in latin and then published them in old French. There are many translations, into modern French or into languages like English, Spanish etc. Montaigne purposely wrote them in "simple" language, but because of the aforementioned reasons, they are difficult to read and in that sense, this book provides a gentle introduction.(less)

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Unanswered Questions (1)

Would this be a good book to give as a gift for someone unfamiliar with Montaigne?

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