Born: 28 February 1533 · Died: 13 September 1592 · Age at death: 59
How old was Michel de Montaigne when he died?
Michel de Montaigne died aged 59. He was born on 28 February 1533 and died on 13 September 1592.
French Renaissance writer who invented the essay as a form, exploring himself and the world in his candid Essays
Did you know?He had the ceiling of his library inscribed with dozens of Greek and Latin quotes.
Quick facts
Date of birth28 February 1533
Date of death13 September 1592
Age at death59
NationalityFrench
BirthplaceSaint-Michel-de-Montaigne, France
Occupationphilosopher, translator, jurist
Editor's Take:
Michel de Montaigne invented the essay. He retired to his tower library to think and write. His Essays explore every subject, from friendship to cannibals. He wrote honestly about himself and his doubts. His motto was "What do I know?". He was also mayor of Bordeaux. His frank, wandering style was new and personal. Shakespeare, Emerson and Nietzsche were among his admirers, and the essay form he created is still everywhere.
Key Milestones
1557: Magistrate – Bordeaux parliament
1571: Retirement to his tower
1580: Essais – first edition
1581: Mayor of Bordeaux
Michel Eyquem, Seigneur de Montaigne (28 February 1533 – 13 September 1592), commonly known as just Michel de Montaigne, was one of the most significant writers of the French Renaissance. He is known for popularising the essay as a literary genre.
