[Born at the Castle of Montaigne, in Perigord, France, 1533. Died at
Perigord, 1592. Aged 59.]
An original and most engaging writer. His essays consist chiefly either
of personal narrative, or of disquisitions upon his individual nature.
His reasoning acute and philosophical, his manner, if one may so call
it, grotesque, and naïve. His descriptions of persons, events, and
places full of life and exquisite drawing. A favourite author with all
lovers of sterling thought, lucid style, and quaint reflection. He lived
during a time of religious conflict, but walked quietly and unscathed
through the fire, blessed with philosophic calm. He travelled in 1580,
visited Switzerland and Venice “which he had a hunger to see,” and
settled for a time in Rome. He said “he could not go out of his way, for
he had no way to go.” On his return, elected Mayor of Bordeaux, though
he told the electors he had “neither party-spirit, memory, diligence,
nor experience.” Elected for a second time to the office, nevertheless.
A man of great moral courage, and warm in his friendships.