Michel de Montaigne was a French philosopher and writer who lived during the Renaissance period. He is known for his collection of essays titled “Essais,” which explore a range of philosophical, social, and personal topics.
Montaigne had a lifelong struggle with depression and melancholy, which is reflected in his writing. In his essay “Of Sadness,” he describes how he has been “taken by melancholy” and how he has “sunk down into a profound depression.”
He believed that melancholy was a natural part of the human condition and that it was often caused by a sense of loss or disconnection from the world. Montaigne argued that the key to overcoming melancholy was to accept it as a part of life and to find ways to cope with it.
One of the ways Montaigne coped with his melancholy was through his writing. He believed that writing about his thoughts and feelings helped him to gain clarity and perspective. He also believed that writing was a way to connect with others and to share his experiences with the world.
Montaigne’s writing also reflects his interest in the concept of death. In his essay “That to Philosophize is to Learn to Die,” he argues that the fear of death is the root of all human anxiety and that by accepting our mortality, we can find a sense of peace and freedom.
Montaigne’s view of suicide was complex. While he believed that suicide was a natural response to unbearable suffering, he also believed that it was a cowardly act that showed a lack of courage and resilience. He wrote that “it is easy to die, but difficult to live well,” and that it was important to face life’s challenges with strength and determination.
Overall, Montaigne’s view of suicidal ideation was shaped by his own struggles with depression and melancholy. He believed that sadness was a natural part of the human condition and that it was important to find ways to cope with it. While he acknowledged the appeal of suicide as a way to escape suffering, he also believed that it was ultimately a cowardly and unfulfilling solution to life’s challenges.