Plutarch

Definition

Plutarch was a Greek biographer and essayist who lived during the Roman Empire, primarily known for his work 'Parallel Lives,' which compares the lives of notable Greeks and Romans. His writings provide invaluable insights into the social, political, and moral contexts of Graeco-Roman Egypt, serving as a crucial source for understanding the values and ideologies of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Plutarch's 'Parallel Lives' consists of 48 biographies, each designed to draw moral lessons from the lives of historical figures.
2. His works provide context about the political dynamics in Graeco-Roman Egypt, highlighting interactions between Greek settlers and native Egyptian society.
3. Plutarch often used anecdotes to illustrate broader themes of virtue and morality, making his writings accessible and relatable.
4. As a biographer, Plutarch contributed to the preservation of history and culture during a time when much of ancient knowledge was at risk of being lost.
5. His influence extended beyond his own time, impacting Renaissance humanism and shaping the way history was viewed in later centuries.

Review Questions

• How does Plutarch’s approach to biography reflect the cultural values of Graeco-Roman society?
  • Plutarch's approach to biography emphasizes moral lessons and character studies, reflecting the cultural values of honor, virtue, and public service in Graeco-Roman society. By comparing figures from Greek and Roman history, he highlights not just their achievements but also their moral choices. This dual focus allowed readers to draw parallels between their own lives and those of historical figures, reinforcing the importance placed on ethics in leadership and personal conduct.
• Discuss the significance of Plutarch's 'Moralia' in understanding philosophical thought during Graeco-Roman Egypt.
  • Plutarch's 'Moralia' is significant because it encompasses a wide range of ethical discussions that reflect the philosophical currents of Graeco-Roman Egypt. The essays engage with Stoicism, Platonism, and other schools of thought, showcasing how these philosophies influenced societal norms and personal behavior. By addressing issues like friendship, justice, and the nature of virtue, 'Moralia' provides insight into how philosophical ideas were integrated into daily life during this period.
• Evaluate how Plutarch's 'Parallel Lives' can be used as a primary source for historical research on Graeco-Roman Egypt.
  • Evaluating Plutarch's 'Parallel Lives' as a primary source reveals its dual role in documenting historical events while providing interpretative commentary on character and morality. Researchers can use these biographies to understand not only specific individuals’ impacts on society but also broader themes like cultural interaction and identity in Graeco-Roman Egypt. However, one must also critically assess Plutarch's biases and intentions as an author, recognizing that his works reflect both historical facts and philosophical ideals that were valued in his time.

Related terms

Parallel Lives: A series of biographies by Plutarch that pairs prominent Greeks with Romans to highlight their virtues and vices.

Moralia: A collection of essays and dialogues by Plutarch covering various ethical, philosophical, and literary topics.

Hellenistic Period: The era following the conquests of Alexander the Great, characterized by the spread of Greek culture across the Eastern Mediterranean and into Asia.