I thought this was more going to be a exploration of Montaignes philosophy rather than a biography. It was instead a pleasurable mix of both. Bakewell paints a real picture of what being a lord/ member of the upper class would be like in the 1500s, weaves in the major social and political forces that directed how Montaigne lived, and really sets out what he personally achieved and how it was received across the following centuries.

A great read for someone who enjoys reading philosophy, biographies, and learning about societies of different times.