Michel de Montaigne, a contemporary of Shakespeare, emerged from the tumult of Frances devastating wars of religion to embrace a life of reflection and introspection. In the tranquil setting of his estates, he turned to writing about the most profound subject he knew—himself. Through his insights on personal likes and dislikes, historical reflections, and tales of love and travel, Montaigne captures not just his own essence, but the essence of all humanity. His famous query, What do I know? invites us to ponder our own souls and experiences. (Summary by Pamela Nagami, M.D.)