Montaigne's_Individualism

Montaigne's Individualism Montaigne's Individualism Individualism is essentially the belief in the importance of the individual and in the virtues of self-reliance as well as personal independence. Those who engineer this philosophy act primarily on this belief. To this end, one might convey the importance of the individual, proceeding over state as well as social groups. Perhaps one of the most influential pieces regarding this philosophy is one not normally canonized with political theories: the Essays of Michel de Montaigne. It is through his private perspective, coupled with his political views and rich interpretation found within Essays that keeps it so deeply rooted in the individualism phenomenon. Montaigne’s Essays touches on many different aspects, but what is primarily fascinating about his work is that on the surface, it does not appear to be politically driven. At first, Montaigne pleads with the reader that he writes with only a “domestic and private goal” in mind, however was very aware to avoid wasting the time of his readers, as well as family and friends. In a rare reference Montaigne makes to his public activities as mayor in diplomat, he states, “Some urge me to write the events of my time…because of the access that fortune has given me to the heads of different parties” (Damrosch, et al, p. 1527). That being said, there is a sense of originality to his work. One might deem them as a confession or something of autobiographical nature. Essays, however, seems to shift his ideas and views to a one-sided conversation with the Greek and Roman writers of centuries past. In his statement, “I am one of those who are very much influenced by the imagination. Everyone feels its impact, but some are overthrown by it” (Damrosch, et al, p. 1520-1521), is a direct citation from Virgil’s Aeneid, Book 8. His decision to use his personal judgment in all matters through his work, his ability to abort any transcendent principles such as God with that of the human experience, appear to be key elements that assist in characterizing Montaigne’s position throughout Essays. Montaigne’s attitude to one’s self is another important aspect to consider when viewing Essays. A repetitive song that is being sung throughout is the measure of how one should behave. What is intentioned would be related to a notion of how one might live out their day to day lives, which includes a general awareness of our surroundings, as well as our individual capacities. Essentially, Montaigne stresses the importance of living the live we have been given. “I am still of this opinion that those comical inhibitions by which our society is so fettered that people talk of nothing else are for the most part the effects of apprehension and fear” (Damrosch, et al, 1522), is a direct reference to the above statement regarding living life. There is no need to get lost in the unnecessary inhibitions of what is out of control; rather it is a plea to focus of what one can control within their own life. It is a refreshing yet challenging aspect as it rings true not just for the society Montaigne was referring to; it can easily be associated with modern day as well. Society gets easily caught up in everything that does not pertain to them as individuals; it makes it appear almost comical. Investing in what one can control within their own scope of reality would only enhance and improve the overall way of life.