Plutarch's Lives

Definition

Plutarch's Lives is a series of biographies of notable Greeks and Romans written by the Greek philosopher and historian Plutarch in the late 1st century and early 2nd century AD. This work presents not only detailed accounts of the lives of influential figures but also offers moral lessons and comparisons between paired biographies, which connect key historical events and figures to their ethical implications, particularly during critical times like the rise of Athenian power and the Macedonian ascendancy under Philip II.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Plutarch wrote 'Parallel Lives,' which pairs biographies of prominent Greek and Roman figures to draw moral comparisons between their lives.
2. The work provides insight into the political dynamics and personal virtues of figures from the Delian League era, highlighting Athenian imperialism.
3. Through Plutarch’s narratives, readers gain perspectives on key leaders like Themistocles and Pericles during Athens' rise.
4. Plutarch also examines Philip II's strategies and character, offering insights into how his leadership paved the way for Macedonian dominance.
5. The biographical approach taken by Plutarch emphasizes character over mere historical events, making moral assessments an essential part of his narratives.

Review Questions

• How does Plutarch's approach in 'Lives' compare to traditional historical accounts in terms of the portrayal of Athenian leaders?
  • Plutarch's approach in 'Lives' differs from traditional historical accounts by focusing on the moral character and virtues of Athenian leaders rather than just their political achievements. By pairing figures such as Themistocles with their Roman counterparts, he allows for a more nuanced exploration of their motivations and ethical implications. This method highlights how personal character played a crucial role in shaping historical outcomes, providing a deeper understanding of Athenian imperialism.
• Discuss the impact that Plutarch's examination of Philip II might have on our understanding of Macedonian expansion in relation to Athenian policies.
  • Plutarch's examination of Philip II provides critical insights into his strategic brilliance and diplomatic maneuvers that facilitated Macedonian expansion. By analyzing Philip's leadership qualities alongside those of Athenian figures, Plutarch reveals how his methods differed from Athenian imperialism. This comparison illustrates how Philip’s pragmatic approach to power contributed to his successes in unifying Greece under Macedonian rule, contrasting with the often more idealistic aspirations of Athenian leaders.
• Evaluate how Plutarch’s moral interpretations influence our perception of historical figures during pivotal moments like the rise of Athens or Macedon's ascendance.
  • Plutarch’s moral interpretations shape our perception by framing historical figures within a context of ethical dilemmas and virtues. His narratives not only recount events but also prompt readers to reflect on the moral lessons embedded in these leaders' lives. This focus on ethics allows us to view figures like Pericles or Philip II as embodiments of specific virtues or flaws, influencing how we understand their roles in pivotal moments such as Athenian imperialism or Macedonian ascendance. By doing so, Plutarch encourages a more introspective evaluation of history beyond mere facts.

Related terms

Biographical Sketch: A brief summary that highlights the key aspects of an individual's life, achievements, and significance.

Moral Philosophy: A branch of philosophy that contemplates what is right and wrong, focusing on ethical questions and the nature of virtue.

Hellenistic Period:

The era following the conquests of Alexander the Great, marked by the spread of Greek culture across a vast empire and interactions with various cultures.