Essays of Michel de Montaigne — Volume 12

In this lively collection of Montaigne’s later essays, the French philosopher turns his keen eye toward everyday dilemmas and timeless moral questions. He examines the habit of telling falsehoods, the freedom of conscience, and the restless pursuit of virtue, all while weaving personal anecdotes with classical references. The tone is intimate yet erudite, inviting listeners to hear a mind that questions its own habits as readily as it probes the habits of others.

The volume also ventures into more playful subjects—whether it is the curious case of thumbs, the perils of idleness, or the unpredictable force of anger—offering a mosaic of reflections that feel both historic and surprisingly modern. Montaigne’s self‑portraiture is modest, presenting his thoughts as a private conversation rather than a public proclamation. Listeners will find a thoughtful companion for moments of contemplation, one who treats philosophy as a lived, conversational art.