Abstract

The essay investigates the presence of Montaigne’s Essais in Foscolo’s reflections and works, from the Milanese Ortis to English writings. The cataloging of the explicit references to Montaigne allows the author to identify three main reading campaigns of the Essais: the first between 1801-02, when Foscolo elaborates the Milanese edition of his epistolary novel; the second in 1809, during the months spent between Pavia and Milan; the third in the years of London exile. The data collected allow us to reflect on the circumstances and the ways in which Foscolo approaches the French author and reveal a fruitful relationship, capable of having a profound impact on Foscolo’s art