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I imagine virtue to be both something else and something nobler than the propensity towards goodness that is born in us. The well-disposed and naturally well-controlled mind follows the same course as the virtuous, and presents the same appearance in its actions.

But virtue sounds like some greater and more active thing than merely to let oneself be led by a happy disposition quietly and peaceably along the path of reason. 

One who out of natural mildness and good-nature overlooks injuries received performs a very fine and praiseworthy action; but another who, though provoked and stung to anger by an insult, takes up the weapons of reason against his furious desire for revenge, and after hard battle finally masters it, is undoubtedly doing a great deal more.

The first man is behaving well, the second virtuously; the first action might be called goodness, the second virtue. For the word virtue, I think, presupposes difficulty and struggle, and something that cannot be practiced without an adversary. This is perhaps why we call God good, mighty, liberal, and just, but do not call him virtuous; His workings are all natural and effortless.

Michel de Montaigne
(1533-1592)

 

Michel Eyquem de Montaigne (1533-92) was a French writer, who introduced the essay as a literary form. His essays, which range over a wide variety of topics, are characterized by a discursive style, a lively conversational tone, and the use of numerous quotations from classical writers.

Montaigne was born February 28, 1533,  at the Chateau de Montaigne near Libourne, of a wealthy family. Montaigne observed life with philosophical skepticism; he emphasized the contradictions and incoherences inherent in human nature and behavior. Montaigne's view on most subjects is conservative. Montaigne insisted on rigorous physical training as part of the development of the whole person, mind and body.

For a full biography please visit MSN Encharta  and  New Advent

 

The Autobiography of Michel De Montaigne Comprising the Life of the Wisest Man of His Times:HisChildhood, Youth, and Prime; His Adventures in Love
by Michel de Montaigne, Marvin Lowenthal
Editor Lowenthal sawed through the philosopher's entire canon to whittle this more manageable portrait of Montaigne's life, which was released in 1935. While telling his own story, Montaigne also waxes on religion, law, and travel, among numerous other subjects.

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