Montaigne on Friendship
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Questions and Answers

What philosophical view did Aristippus express regarding natural bonds?

  • He believed they should be respected without question.
  • He viewed them with contempt, comparing them to the birth of lice. (correct)
  • He valued them highly and promoted affection towards them.
  • He endorsed the idea that they are essential for human connection.

What can weaken the bond between brothers?

  • Dividing property and wealth. (correct)
  • Shared interests and goals.
  • Mutual respect and understanding.
  • Cultural and ethical differences.

What does the author suggest is more variable than true friendship?

  • Brotherly affection.
  • Parent-child relationships.
  • Sibling rivalry.
  • Passion for women. (correct)

What does 'willing freedom' produce according to the text?

<p>Affection and loving friendships. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In contrasting relationships, what does the text say about the nature of fathers and sons?

<p>They can differ greatly in temperament and nature. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the author depict the fire of passion in romantic relationships?

<p>As fleeting and unpredictable. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does the author find the name of 'brother' significant?

<p>It reflects love and a sense of union. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the author imply about brotherly relationships when subjected to material division?

<p>They can create tensions and conflicts. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the philosopher Diogenes imply about generosity?

<p>The more generous person is one who provides opportunities for others to give. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What unique arrangement did Eudamidas make in his will?

<p>He appointed one friend to care for his mother and another for his daughter. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial reaction of the heirs after reading Eudamidas' will?

<p>They were indifferent to its content. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does perfect friendship require according to the passage?

<p>The complete devotion of one soul to another. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who did Aretheus take care of after Charixenus' death?

<p>Eudamidas' mother. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of friendship is highlighted as different from common friendships?

<p>Perfect friendships are characterized by exclusive devotion to a single person. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way did Aretheus demonstrate generosity after receiving Eudamidas’ wealth?

<p>He generously provided dowries for both daughters. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What dilemma is posed regarding conflicting favors among friends?

<p>It is essential to prioritize one friend's request over another. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason the speaker values the treatise mentioned?

<p>It represents the beginning of a cherished friendship. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what does Aristotle suggest about friendship compared to justice?

<p>Friendship is considered to be more important than justice. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is stated as a factor that can diminish the beauty of friendship?

<p>Involvement of personal gain or pleasure. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of relationships does the author claim cannot foster true friendship?

<p>Relationships with excessive inequality. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of family relations is mentioned as incompatible with friendship?

<p>Natural obligations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What sentiment is expressed regarding the rarity of true friendship?

<p>It requires numerous fortuitous circumstances. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is implied about the ancient species of love in relation to friendship?

<p>They are completely distinct from friendship. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What unusual customs regarding family relationships are mentioned?

<p>Some cultures practiced killing to prevent familial conflicts. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the text characterize the nature of the love of friends?

<p>It is consistent and gentle. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Montaigne suggest about sexual love compared to friendship?

<p>Sexual love is a temporary craving that leads to satiety. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Montaigne imply about the relationship between friendship and the mind?

<p>Friendship flourishes in the realm of the mind and desire. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Montaigne view the institution of marriage in comparison to friendship?

<p>Marriage is constrained and can disrupt genuine passion. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Montaigne suggest about women’s ability to engage in deep friendship?

<p>Women may lack the firmness to maintain such enduring friendships. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does desire play in the experience of friendship according to Montaigne?

<p>Desire enhances the enjoyment of friendship. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of a friendship entering a transactional or commercial domain, as discussed by Montaigne?

<p>It disrupts the pure nature of friendship. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What metaphor does Montaigne use to describe the pursuit of sexual love?

<p>A hunt for an elusive prize. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What essential quality is highlighted in the concept of perfect friendship according to Montaigne?

<p>It is a relationship that requires mutual sacrifice. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In his analogy, what does Montaigne imply about his writings compared to that of the artist?

<p>His essays are a mix of varied themes without clear cohesion. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the title of the treatise Montaigne refers to that was written by Etienne de La Boëtie?

<p>On Willing Slavery (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Montaigne perceive La Boëtie's potential as a writer?

<p>He anticipated La Boëtie could have written greater works than he did. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What phrase does Montaigne use to describe a woman in one of his references?

<p>A fair woman ending in a fish's tail. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Montaigne view the importance of La Boëtie's treatise in the context of political discourse?

<p>It has garnered respect for its bold stance against tyranny. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which concept does Montaigne associate with the artist's ability to create a richly ornate picture?

<p>Experience and technical skill. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Montaigne imply about the nature of his essays in relation to established artistic principles?

<p>They represent fragmented thoughts with no overarching theme. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested as an ideal relationship mentioned in the content?

<p>A relationship where both souls and bodies are involved (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are women considered excluded from the ideal loving-friendship?

<p>The common agreement of Ancient schools of philosophy excludes them (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of love does the author critique regarding Greek practices?

<p>The disparity of age among lovers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'frenzy inspired by Venus' son' refer to?

<p>The obsession with physical beauty (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a noble inducement in pursuing love?

<p>Gifts and financial favors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what is one major reason people do not fall in love with an ugly youth or a beautiful old man?

<p>Physical beauty is often prioritized in relationships (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the author imply about the mind's development in youthful love?

<p>It is often misled by physical appearances (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the ultimate goal of the Lover in a noble relationship, according to the content?

<p>To demonstrate virtue and earn acceptance (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is a "grotesque" in Montaigne's writing?

In writing, a "grotesque" refers to a fantastical or bizarre creation that is typically composed of diverse, unmatched parts. Montaigne uses the word "grotesques" as a metaphor to explain the style of his Essays.

Why does Montaigne compare his Essays to "grotesques"?

Montaigne describes his Essays as "grotesques" because they are unique, unconventional, and blend various ideas and styles.

What is the practical purpose of the "grotesques" in Montaigne's Essays?

The "grotesques" in Montaigne's Essays serve a practical purpose – they add variety and novelty to his work, keeping the reader engaged.

Who does Montaigne admire as a writer, and what qualities do they possess?

Montaigne admires the work of his friend, Etienne de La Boëtie, as a model of well-structured and polished writing, though he acknowledges his own "grotesque" approach.

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What essay did Etienne de La Boëtie write, and what is it about?

Montaigne's friend, Etienne de La Boëtie, wrote a powerful argument against tyranny in the essay "On Willing Slavery," later retitled "Against One," which impressed Montaigne.

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What does Montaigne say about La Boëtie's writing abilities, and what is an example of this?

Montaigne's friend, Etienne de La Boëtie, was incredibly intelligent and capable, even in his youth, and he was capable of writing even stronger and more polished works than the already impressive "Against One," according to Montaigne.

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How does La Boëtie's work influence Montaigne's writing?

Montaigne is inspired by La Boëtie's work, particularly his essay "Against One," which serves as a model for his own writing, demonstrating how impactful strong arguments can be.

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Despite his own "grotesque" style, what aspect of traditional writing does Montaigne admire?

Montaigne, despite his unique writing style, acknowledges the value of traditional, structured essays, highlighting La Boëtie's work as an example of what he aspires to achieve.

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True Friendship

A bond between two people characterized by mutual affection, trust, and shared interests, where the relationship itself is the primary goal, not external benefits.

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Friendship's Perfection

The idea that the highest form of friendship is one that is based solely on mutual respect and affection, not on external factors like pleasure, profit, or necessity.

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Friendship's Importance in Society

The belief that friendship is a natural human inclination and that good leaders recognize its importance in society.

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Friendship and Family Roles

The concept that friendship cannot exist between parents and children due to the inherent power imbalance and conflicting roles.

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Mutual Confidence in Friendship

The idea that true friendship is based on mutual trust and open communication, allowing individuals to share their thoughts and feelings freely.

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Rarity of True Friendship

The statement that friendship is rare and requires a combination of favorable circumstances to flourish.

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Parental Love vs. Friendship

The belief that the love between parent and child goes beyond friendship and is more rooted in natural obligation and respect.

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Conflict of Interest and Friendship

The idea that societies where children kill their fathers or vice versa are based on a fundamental conflict of interest, making true friendship impossible.

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Natural Bonds

A term describing a relationship based on a shared origin, like family ties or blood relations.

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Aristippus's argument

He argued that family ties are arbitrary because even undesirable things like lice and worms are also born from the same source as your children.

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Brother from the same hole

A statement rejecting the importance of shared origins, highlighting that they don't inherently create a meaningful connection.

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Loving-friendship

This refers to a deep, voluntary connection between two individuals, often based on mutual respect, admiration, and understanding.

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Loving relationships commanded by law

This refers to a formal, legal commitment or connection, usually dictated by society's laws and cultural norms.

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Willing freedom

The idea that truly genuine and profound connections are formed through shared interests, mutual respect, and free will.

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Exemplary family in brotherly harmony

Montaigne describes his own family as a model of brotherly harmony.

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Flames of passion

This refers to the passionate and intense feelings associated with love and desire, often characterized by strong emotions and fluctuations.

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Friendship's warmth

Love between friends is characterized by a steady, gentle, and constant warmth that lacks any sharp or intense qualities.

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Sexual love's chase

Sexual love is described as a passionate desire for something elusive, like a hunter's pursuit of a fleeing hare.

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Love's transformation in friendship

Sexual love loses its intensity when it enters the realm of friendship, where wills align and mutual understanding prevails.

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Contrast: Friendship vs. Love

Friendship gains strength through enjoyment, while sexual love diminishes with fulfillment. Friendship thrives on shared experiences.

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Marriage's constraints

Marriage, like a contract with restrictions, is driven by external factors and involves complex negotiations.

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Friendship's liberty

Friendship is a free and independent relationship, free from external obligations and distractions, focused on mutual understanding and trust.

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Women and friendship

Women are not as capable of sharing the deep trust and intimate connection that are the foundation of true friendship.

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Women's strength for friendship

Women's souls are not as strong or steady as those of men, making them less suited for the lasting and intense commitment of friendship.

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Generosity in Friendship

In true friendship, the giver is more generous than the receiver because they provide the joy of fulfilling their friend's desires.

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Diogenes's Money Back

Diogenes, a philosopher, jokingly claimed he needed money back from his friends, implying that true friends are always there to help.

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Eudamidas's Will

Eudamidas's will, dividing his possessions to his friends' care, shows that true friends act out of love and responsibility, not self-interest.

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Indivisible Friendship

True friendship is indivisible, meaning a person dedicates all of themselves to their friend, not sharing their love with others.

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True vs. Common Friendship

While common friendships focus on shared interests, true friendship is a complete, total commitment of the soul to another.

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Conflict in True Friendship

The possibility of helping two friends at the same time in need signifies a conflict within true friendship's exclusivity.

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True Friendship vs. Family Ties

True friendship, unlike family ties, is a choice based on mutual respect and affection, not on shared origins or social obligations.

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Parental Love vs. True Friendship

Montaigne argues that love between parents and children, being based on natural obligation, is not the same as true friendship.

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Full and Abundant Friendship

A relationship that involves not only intellectual and emotional connection, but also a physical union, creating a complete and harmonious bond.

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The Greek Alternative Licence

The Greek practice of pederasty, which involved sexual relationships between older men and younger boys, was considered inappropriate by Montaigne due to the power imbalance and lack of mutuality.

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Why does nobody ever fall in love with a youth who is ugly or with a beautiful old man?

A rhetorical question posed by Montaigne, highlighting the absurdity of a love based on superficial physical attributes rather than inner qualities.

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The Frenzy Inspired by Venus' Son

The initial passionate attraction felt by a lover for a young person was often based on physical beauty, a superficial image of generative potential, rather than intellectual or spiritual qualities.

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A Base Mind in Pursuit of Love

A person driven by baser motives, such as wealth and status, may pursue a relationship for personal gain rather than true affection. This was condemned by the intellectual circles of Montaigne's time.

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A Noble Mind in Pursuit of Love

A noble mind seeking a relationship values intellectual stimulation, moral guidance, and the pursuit of virtue. This was seen as a more worthy and enduring form of love than physical infatuation.

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A Mental Alliance to Strike a more Firm and Durable Match

The lover, seeking a deeper and more meaningful bond, strives to make themselves worthy of the beloved's inner beauty. This involves an intellectual and spiritual connection, going beyond physical attraction.

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Study Notes

Friendship

  • Montaigne's concept of friendship is indivisible; each person gives entirely to their friend, and has nothing left to share with others.

  • Friendship is a perfect, complete union where individuals share everything (wills, goods, wives, children, honour, life) together.

  • This form of friendship is different from other types of relationships such as those based on pleasure, profit, or social necessity.

  • Montaigne contrasts friendship with other types of love, such as the natural, social, hospitable, and erotic.

  • Montaigne uses an example from a famous author, Etienne de La Boétie to illustrate his ideas about the perfect friendship.

  • Ideal friendship requires a perfect understanding and equality (in terms of age and favours exchanged).

  • Montaigne contrasts friendship with shallower forms of human interaction and relationships.

  • Ancient and contemporary views on relationships are compared and contrasted.

  • Individuals in this type of partnership are of similar and equal mind, character, and age.

  • This perfect, complete relationship is difficult to achieve.

  • True friendship can only be achieved through great effort and understanding by both parties.

Montaigne's Essay

  • Montaigne's essay on friendship explores varying views on different types of friendships.

  • The text delves into the notion that true friendship entails sharing every part of oneself.

  • It suggests that people often mistake fleeting connections and interactions for true friendship.

  • The writing discusses the importance of mutual respect and understanding in any relationship.

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On Friendship by Michel de Montaigne PDF

Description

Explore Montaigne's profound insights on friendship, where he describes it as an indivisible union marked by total sharing. This quiz contrasts true friendship with other types of relationships and examines the ideal qualities of genuine companionship, drawing upon historical and contemporary perspectives.

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