Why should we study Montaigne’s literary techniques? What benefits can we draw from his contributions? I see two crucial reasons for studying the literary techniques and contributions from Michel de Montaigne (1533-1592). In the first instance, they can enable us to think faster in the face of challenges. Secondly, they can help us make better decisions. Let us review his literary techniques and contributions in the light of those two benefits. Montaigne belongs to a small group of authors, a group that I credit with the ability to help readers think faster. I would also include Aristotle (384-322 BC) and Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860) in that small group, and a few other authors. Those authors possess the rare ability to address any subject of their interest, literally any subject under the sun, make deep observations, and draw useful conclusions. I regard Montaigne’s essays as an ideal training ground for faster thinking. Why? Because they cover a wide variety of subjects, and in each case, they make us consider unusual or unorthodox standpoints. They help us develop the habit to look beyond the obvious. For example, Montaigne has no problem in recommending regular periods of solitude (in his essay “Of Solitude”) against the dominant opinions, which promoted gregariousness and a sense of community. He also has no problem in proclaiming critical thinking as a central objective of education (in his essay “Of the Education of Children”), while his peers considered that the transmission of moral values should remain the fundamental goal. Montaigne’s favourite literary technique is the counterpoint, that is, the presentation of sharply contrasting arguments. His goal is to let readers see the complete picture before they make a decision. Here is the link to the original article: https://johnvespasian.com/montaignes-literary-techniques-and-contributions/