Michel de Montaigne made significant philosophical contributions through his exploration of humanism and the art of essay writing. He is credited with popularizing the essay as a literary form, using personal reflection and anecdotal evidence to explore varied subjects, including ethics, culture, and identity. Montaigne’s works, particularly “Essais,” emphasized subjectivity and the complexity of human experience, encouraging readers to engage in self-examination. His skepticism of dogmas and emphasis on tolerance laid the groundwork for modern thought and fostered discussions about relativism. Montaigne's contributions continue to resonate in contemporary philosophy and literature.