How to Live by Sarah Bakewell Summary

How to Live explores French philosopher Michel de Montaigne’s life and essays through 20 answers to the question “How to live?” Sarah Bakewell blends biography, philosophy, and history, tracing Montaigne’s insights on mortality, moderation, and self-acceptance. The book highlights his Renaissance-era experiences, near-death epiphanies, and enduring influence on modern thought, offering a fresh lens on living authentically.

This book appeals to philosophy enthusiasts, history buffs, and readers seeking wisdom on navigating life’s challenges. It’s ideal for fans of biographical narratives or those interested in Renaissance thought, blending scholarly depth with accessible storytelling. Bakewell’s work resonates with anyone exploring self-improvement, mortality, or the human condition.

Yes—it won the 2010 NBCC Biography Award and is praised for its engaging prose and relevance. Bakewell makes Montaigne’s 16th-century ideas accessible, offering timeless lessons on resilience, curiosity, and embracing imperfection. Its blend of humor, history, and introspection makes it a standout in philosophical biographies.

Key themes include confronting mortality, practicing moderation, and accepting human flaws. Montaigne’s essays advocate living mindfully, learning from adversity, and rejecting societal pressures to be extraordinary. Bakewell underscores his belief in “common sense” over dogma, illustrating how his ideas apply to modern self-discovery.

Bakewell organizes the book around 20 answers to Montaigne’s central question, weaving chronology with thematic analysis. Chapters like “Guard your humanity” and “Reflect on everything, regret nothing” explore his life events—retirement, travels, friendships—alongside evolving philosophies. This structure mirrors Montaigne’s meandering, introspective style.

Notable quotes include Montaigne’s advice to “read a lot, forget most of what you read” (advocating mindful learning) and “let life be its own answer” (embracing spontaneity). Bakewell highlights his stoic view of death: “Dying is less dreadful than the fear of dying”.

Montaigne saw death as a natural, painless process after surviving a horse-riding accident. He argues fearing death distracts from living fully, urging readers to focus on present joys rather than obsessing over mortality. Bakewell ties this to his broader philosophy of moderation and acceptance.

Some note the nonlinear structure may challenge readers seeking a traditional biography. However, most praise Bakewell’s innovative approach, balancing rigor with wit. Critics acclaim her ability to make Renaissance philosophy feel urgent, though a few desire deeper analysis of Montaigne’s contradictions.

Bakewell’s work stands out for its thematic focus on “how to live” rather than pure chronology. Unlike academic biographies, it emphasizes Montaigne’s relevance today, linking his essays to modern self-help and mindfulness trends. It’s often called the most accessible introduction to his life and ideas.

Montaigne’s lessons encourage embracing imperfection, reflecting without regret, and finding joy in ordinary moments. Bakewell shows how his advice—like “use little tricks” to cope with stress—applies to relationships, career challenges, or grief, fostering resilience and self-compassion.

His emphasis on moderation, curiosity, and rejecting extremism resonates in times of social polarization. Bakewell argues Montaigne’s focus on individual experience over dogma offers a antidote to modern anxiety, making his insights on identity and ethics timeless.

Montaigne prized deep, intellectual bonds, exemplified by his friendship with Étienne de La Boétie. Bakewell explores how their connection shaped his views on loyalty and dialogue, contrasting it with superficial social ties. This theme underscores his belief in relationships as pillars of a meaningful life.