Michel de Montaigne was a French philosopher and writer born in 1533. He is best known for developing the essay as a literary form, allowing for personal reflection and exploration of various topics. His work often delved into human nature, ethics, and the complexities of life. Montaigne's most famous collection, titled Essais, includes a wide range of subjects, from friendship to death. He emphasized the importance of skepticism and open-mindedness, influencing later thinkers such as Rene Descartes and Friedrich Nietzsche. His ideas continue to resonate in modern philosophy and literature.