Montaigne's Essays
Details
Michel de Montaigne (1533–1592) practically invented the modern essay. His writings are witty, humane, and endlessly surprising. In the four essays we’ll read together, Montaigne asks timeless questions about culture, friendship, mortality, and experience.
- “Of Cannibals” reflects on so-called “savages” of the New World and questions what we call civilization.
- “Of Friendship” is a moving meditation on intimacy, shaped by his bond with Étienne de La Boétie.
- “That to Philosophize Is to Learn to Die” considers how facing mortality is central to wisdom.
- “Of Experience”, his final essay, gathers a lifetime of reflections on health, habit, moderation, and self-knowledge.
Join us to discuss these classic essays in a single session!
***
Meeting Details
📅 Sat 10/11 · 11:30pm–1:30pm (please note the different start time)
📍 The Oyster Room @ Pier 57
Readings
All four essays (Of Cannibals, Of Friendship, That to Philosophize Is to Learn to Die, Of Experience) — about 55–60 pages total, depending on edition.
Free Texts
Feel free to use any translation or edition you like.
***
Rules for Our Group
- Be Courteous
Respectful disagreement with others is encouraged. Condescension is not. - Be Concise
Keep comments on topic and reasonably brief. Moderators will ensure everyone has the chance to contribute. - Do the Reading
If you haven’t done the reading, you’re welcome to attend and listen, but out of respect for those who have, you won’t be permitted to join the discussion.
For more info and FAQ on the group click here.
***
Can’t wait to dive into Montaigne with all of you!
—Brent