Montaigne, quelques anciens et l’écriture des Essais

First, an analysis of Montaigne’s complex relationship with his ancient sources is conducted by studying his library. The author’s “ancient” ways of thinking are then examined, as well as his quotation techniques. A well-informed meditation on negligentia diligens (careful negligence), which is considered the genius of Montaigne’s Essais, concludes this study.