Why was there an entire chapter dedicated to Michel de Montaigne? Explain his significance.

The chapters have individual names. 1—Forerunners, 2—Fountainhead, 3—The Rise of the English Essay, 4—Other Cultures, Other Continents, and 5—The American Scene.

Explain the importance of each title.

Could any of the titles been improved upon? If so which and why?

In the Introduction, Lopate says "The hardest job I have had was selecting personal essays written by my contemporaries. We are too close too the present to make accurate judgments about what will last or can comfortably stand with the masters of old."

Explain what Lopate meant when he said "..will last or can comfortably stand with the masters of old." Do you agree with Lopate? Explain your reasoning.

In chapter one Seneca writes an essay titled "Slaves." What does Seneca intend to convey with...