Uploaded September 2013 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Taken from a larger collection by Montaigne entitled "The Essays". Montaigne's stated design in writing, publishing and revising the Essays over the period from approximately 1570 to 1592 was to record for the 'private benefit of friends and kinsmen ... some traits of my character and of my humours.' The Essays were first published in 1580 and cover a wide range of topics. As Essai is French for "trial" or "attempt", so Montaigne attempted to explore his thoughts, his life and learning in written form. His essays are widely regarded as the predecessor of the modern essay: a focused treatment of issues, events and concerns past, present and future.
The text for this audio is from the book Essays of Montaigne translated by Charles Cotton and published in 1877 and is in the public domain. This audio was recorded by LearnOutLoud.com and is narrated by Tony LaHood. Copyright © 2007 LearnOutLoud, Inc. Any reproduction or illegal distribution of the content in any form will result in immediate action against the person concerned.
Taken from a larger collection by Montaigne entitled "The Essays". Montaigne's stated design in writing, publishing and revising the Essays over the period from approximately 1570 to 1592 was to record for the 'private benefit of friends and kinsmen ... some traits of my character and of my humours.' The Essays were first published in 1580 and cover a wide range of topics. As Essai is French for "trial" or "attempt", so Montaigne attempted to explore his thoughts, his life and learning in written form. His essays are widely regarded as the predecessor of the modern essay: a focused treatment of issues, events and concerns past, present and future.
The text for this audio is from the book Essays of Montaigne translated by Charles Cotton and published in 1877 and is in the public domain. This audio was recorded by LearnOutLoud.com and is narrated by Tony LaHood. Copyright © 2007 LearnOutLoud, Inc. Any reproduction or illegal distribution of the content in any form will result in immediate action against the person concerned.
