The Selected Essays of Montaigne Author:Lester G. Crocker, ed. When Michel Eyquem, Seigneur de Montaigne, retired to his chateau in 1571, he shut himself up in his library and wrote. The book that resulted was first published in 1580, and from that day to this, it has been a model of literary form and style as well as the constant compainion of the reading public. The works of such men as Francis Bascon, ... more »Shakespeare, Voltaire and Emerson have all left us with a clear account of this book's influence and importance in the history of our culture. Certainly everybody interested in the study of man and human nature must someday share in the delight and enlightenment of these essays. Everyone who does will know the reasons why this book holds such a unique and revered place in the select library of world classics.« less