Montaigne

Focusing on the philosophical depth of Montaigne's Essays, Pierre Manent explores the unique contributions Montaigne made to modern thought, particularly regarding the human condition. By comparing Montaigne's ideas with those of Machiavelli, Hobbes, Pascal, and Rousseau, he examines the implications of a life without state authority. Manent highlights Montaigne's reimagining of virtue and pleasure, as well as his insights on disputation and mortality, ultimately presenting Montaigne as a pivotal figure in the development of modern philosophical thought.