In ‘Lives of the Noble Grecians and Romans, ‘ Plutarch presents a series of biographical sketches that juxtapose the lives of prominent Greek and Roman figures. This work, notable for its rich narrative style and moral undertones, employs a comparative approach to examine the virtues and vices of these leaders, elucidating the moral lessons derived from their lives. Written during the first century AD, Plutarch’s biographical method diverges from strict historical accounts, blending ethics with storytelling to illuminate character and decision-making in political life, thereby offering a timeless exploration of leadership and personal integrity. Plutarch, a Greek biographer and philosopher, was deeply influenced by Socratic ideals and the ethical philosophy of his time, which emphasize the importance of personal virtue and civic responsibility. His background in both the Greek and Roman worlds, coupled with his role as a priest in the temple of Apollo at Delphi, shaped his perspectives, allowing him to engage in the cultural dialogue of his epoch. His work reflects a desire to bridge the worlds of Hellenism and Roman civilization, making it a seminal text in the study of ethics and history. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in classical literature, philosophy, or the intricacies of moral character as it pertains to public life. Plutarch’s insights resonate through the ages, offering readers an opportunity to reflect on the timeless qualities of greatness and the human condition, making it not only a historical document but also a profound guide for contemporary leaders.
A propos de l’auteur
Plutarch, born Plutarchos, later named, upon becoming a Roman citizen, Lucius Mestrius Plutarchus (c. 46 – c. 119 AD), was a Greek historian, biographer, essayist, and Platonist who is most famous for his series of biographies known as ‘Parallel Lives’ or ‘Lives of the Noble Grecians and Romans.’ This seminal work pairs the biographies of famous Greeks with those of notable Romans, drawing moral and ethical lessons from their lives and drawing comparisons between individuals from these two great classical civilizations. His narratives were not strictly chronological, but instead focused on the moral character and leadership qualities of the individuals. Plutarch’s method of parallelism was innovative and influential, highlighting his profound interest in the human spirit and morality, rather than on the meticulous recounting of historical events. He emphasized the importance of individuals’ virtue and vice, and how their moral character influenced their decisions and, by extension, the course of history. Plutarch’s influence extended well beyond his lifetime, with his works being a major source for Shakespeare and other Renaissance writers. His ‘Lives’ have provided a valuable historical resource and a profound insight into the leadership and personal attributes that both define and transcend cultural boundaries. Plutarch’s legacy is that of a moralist treasured as much for his ethical insights as for his contributions to classical history.
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