17th century Quote by Stephen Greenblatt
“One of my favorite writers is Michel de Montaigne. My wife gave me a beautiful 17th-century edition of Montaigne's essays translated by John Florio. That's probably my most precious possession.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: "The Bookish Life", 2021
Owning a rare 17th‑century Montaigne edition connects the holder to literary history, personal heritage, and the tactile joy of books.
In simple terms: A rare Montaigne book links you to literary history and personal value.
Key Takeaway
Cherish and share the book’s story.
Themes
literature
heritage
collecting
history
Mood
nostalgic
proud
Type
reflective
personal
When to use this quote
- academic research
- personal reflection
- gift giving
- museum display
Key Concepts
Renaissance humanism
book history
translation studies
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this possession shape your view of literature?
- What responsibilities come with owning such a piece?
A Different Perspective
Rare books can be fragile and costly to preserve.
![“In the year of Christ 1571, at the age of thirty-eight, on the last day of February, anniversary of his birth, Michel de Montaigne, lon weary of the servitude of the court and of public employments, while still entire, retired to the bosom of the learned Virgins [Muses], where in calm and freedom…” quote by Michel de Montaigne (1533-1592](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d65/michel-de-montaigne-1533-1592_last-day_in-the-year-of-christ-1571-at-the-age-of_2359194.jpg)
