Les Caracteres is one of the most often quoted works of French literature, and with reason. The book is more of an anthology of humor and wisdom than a continuous narrative, composed of one-sentence to two-page sketches, maxims, and reflections on everything from good and bad behavoir in the king's court to how to avoid becoming obsessed with bird-watching. Writing in the 16th century, La Bruyère's humor is surprisingly modern at times, all the while painting honest and vivid portraits of his period.

Separated loosely into thematic chapters, the book can be picked up and put down at ease without breaking the thread--just the thing for the reader who, for one reason or another, finds herself frequently interrupted. Much like (but funnier than) the Analects of Confucious or the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius, the Caractères are at once thought-provoking, historically enlightening, emanently readable, and entertaining.