The Complete Essays

Discover the brilliance of Michel de Montaigne with The Complete Essays, a transformative collection that forever altered literary expression. This definitive Penguin Classics edition has been thoughtfully translated from French and expertly edited by M.A. Screech, making it an essential addition to any literature enthusiast's bookshelf. Explore the profound insights Montaigne offers on a wide array of topics, ranging from war and politics to love, friendship, and the complexities of human nature. Delve into the mind of a Renaissance thinker who shared his intimate reflections and philosophical musings in a personal and engaging manner. The Complete Essays showcases Montaigne's unique style, giving readers a window into his life and times while inviting them to contemplate their own experiences. Whether you're a student of literature, philosophy, or simply someone curious about the human condition, this collection is sure to enlighten and inspire. With its extensive introduction and insightful notes by M.A. Screech, this edition is hailed as the most distinguished work on Montaigne in recent times. Don't miss the chance to own this masterpiece that bridges classical literature and contemporary thought. Experience the joy of reading Montaigne today with FREE shipping, and immerse yourself in the world of Renaissance wisdom.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780140446043
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 1993
Publisher: Penguin UK
Pages: 1360


Description:
Michel de Montaigne was one of the most influential figures of the Renaissance, singlehandedly responsible for popularising the essay as a literary form. This Penguin Classics edition of The Complete Essays is translated from the French and edited with an introduction and notes by M.A. Screech.
In 1572 Montaigne retired to his estates in order to devote himself to leisure, reading and reflection. There he wrote his constantly expanding 'assays', inspired by the ideas he found in books contained in his library and from his own experience. He discusses subjects as diverse as war-horses and cannibals, poetry and politics, sex and religion, love and friendship, ecstasy and experience. But, above all, Montaigne studied himself as a way of drawing out his own inner nature and that of men and women in general. The Essays are among the most idiosyncratic and personal works in all literature and provide an engaging insight into a wise Renaissance mind, continuing to give pleasure and enlightenment to modern readers.
With its extensive introduction and notes, M.A. Screech's edition of Montaigne is widely regarded as the most distinguished of recent times.
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 Complete Essays, you might like Francois Rabelais's Gargantua and Pantagruel, also available in Penguin Classics.
'Screech's fine version ... must surely serve as the definitive English Montaigne'
A.C. Grayling, Financial Times
'A superb edition'
Nicholas Wollaston, Observer


This product has FREE shipping however combined shipping for other products is not available with this item. Please allow up to 10 days for shipping.