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What the Book Explores

Michel de Montaigne’s “Cannibals” (originally part of his *Essays*, 1580) is not a treatise on cannibalism in the modern, sensationalized sense. Rather, it is a complex reflection on cultural relativism, the nature of barbarism, and the limitations of ethnocentric judgment. Montaigne examines accounts of Indigenous peoples in the Americas—specifically, the Tupi people of Brazil—as reported by travelers. He meticulously deconstructs European assumptions about savagery, arguing that what Europeans condemn as barbarous practices are often simply different customs, and that the lines between civilization and barbarity are far more blurred than commonly believed. The essay also delves into the concept of natural goodness, questioning whether “savages” are inherently more or less virtuous than Europeans, free from the corrupting influences of complex societies.

Historical / Cultural Context

Montaigne wrote during the early stages of European colonization of the Americas. The arrival of Europeans brought with it not only conquest and exploitation, but also a flood of reports—often biased and fantastical—about the customs and beliefs of Indigenous populations. These reports were frequently used to justify colonial expansion by portraying Indigenous peoples as “uncivilized” and in need of European guidance. Montaigne’s essay is significant because it directly challenges this justification. He uses skepticism—a hallmark of his philosophy—to question the reliability of these reports and to argue for a more nuanced understanding of other cultures. His work reflects the Renaissance humanist interest in examining different perspectives and questioning established norms. It appears within a period where the understanding of the ‘Other’ was shifting – from mythological creatures to actual people with differing belief systems. The essay isn’t simply about Indigenous practices; it’s a commentary on European society itself, holding a mirror up to its own perceived moral superiority.

Who This Book Is For

This work is suitable for readers interested in the history of anthropology, cultural studies, philosophy, and the Renaissance. It is also valuable for anyone interested in understanding the roots of ethnocentrism and the importance of cultural relativism. While written in the 16th century, Montaigne’s arguments remain remarkably relevant to contemporary discussions about cultural understanding, colonialism, and the ethics of representation. It isn’t a light read, requiring some patience with the style of Renaissance essay writing. However, the insights are profound and applicable beyond an academic setting.

Further Reading

• Levi-Strauss, Claude. *Structural Anthropology*. Levi-Strauss builds on Montaigne’s ideas in his structuralist analysis of mythology and kinship systems, further exploring the universality of human thought despite cultural differences.
• Said, Edward. *Orientalism*. Said’s work examines how the West constructs representations of the “Orient” (and by extension, other cultures) to justify its power and dominance – an extension of the dynamics Montaigne was beginning to question.
• Taussig, Michael. *The Nervous System of Colonialism*. Taussig explores the sensory and psychological effects of colonialism, highlighting the distortions and power dynamics inherent in colonial encounters.

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