Michel Eyquem, Seigneur de Montaigne (28 February 1533 – 13 September 1592), commonly known as just Michel de Montaigne, was one of the most significant philosophers of the French Renaissance. He is known for popularising the essay as a literary genre. His work is noted for its merging of casual anecdotes and autobiography with intellectual insight. Montaigne had a direct influence on numerous writers of Western literature; his Essais contain some of the most influential essays ever written. During his lifetime, Montaigne was admired more as a statesman than as an author.
To doubt everything or to believe everything are two equally convenient solutions; both dispense with the need for thought.
Essays
The most certain sign of wisdom is cheerfulness.
Essays
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