Michel Eyquem de Montaigne was a French philosopher who lived during the French Renaissance in the 16th century. He is counted among the most important philosophers of that era that witnessed far reaching developments in the field of philosophy. Montaigne was born in a wealthy family and was educated privately, before attending some of the premier educational institutions in France. He became a member of the legal system in Toulouse and eventually a nobleman for Charles IX, . He is however, known for his considerable work as a philosopher during the French Renaissance. At the same time it is also worthwhile pointing out that when he was alive, he was more famous as a formidable statesman than as a philosopher. Montaigne is particularly well-known for having taken the humble essay to a different level and turning it into a legitimate literary genre, many of which were autobiographical or anecdotal in nature. Some of his better known theories and contributions include ‘Renaissance humanism’, ‘Renaissance skepticism’ and ‘Montaigne’s wheel argument’. Montaigne was a man of rare intellect and talent who left behind a vast work on philosophy, education, wisdom, politics, life and much more. His works highlight his thoughts on these subjects. We have excerpted his thoughts and quotes from his work. Here is a collection of thoughts, sayings and quotations by Michel de Montaigne on friendship, philosophy, essays, books, education, fear, wisdom love and death.
I am afraid that our eyes are bigger than our stomachs, and that we have more curiosity than understanding. We grasp at everything, but catch nothing except wind.
Confidence in others' honesty is no light testimony of one's own integrity.
Michel de Montaigne
The greater part of the world's troubles are due to questions of grammar.
Michel de Montaigne
The most fruitful and natural exercise for our minds is, in my opinion, conversation.
Michel de Montaigne
Every man has within himself the entire human condition
Michel de Montaigne
I do not believe, from what I have been told about this people, that there is anything barbarous or savage about them, except that we all call barbarous anything that is contrary to our own habits.
