Plutarch

Plutarch was a Greek biographer and essayist, known primarily for his Parallel Lives and Moralia. He lived between c. AD 46 – c. AD 120. His works explored the characters and morals of ancient figures, comparing Greek and Roman individuals in a biographical format. His writings have been influential and remain significant sources of historical information.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Parallel Lives

    "Parallel Lives" is a collection of biographies of famous Greek and Roman figures, written in pairs to draw comparisons between their lives. The work explores the influence of character on the lives and destinies of these historical figures. The biographies are not only a record of the lives of these individuals, but also provide insight into the times in which they lived, offering a unique perspective on the history and culture of the ancient world.

  2. 2. Moralia

    "Moralia" is a collection of essays and dialogues that delve into various ethical, religious, physical, political, and literary topics, reflecting the author's profound interest in the moral issues of his time. The work is not a single coherent piece but rather an eclectic compilation of thoughts and inquiries, ranging from the proper behavior at a banquet to discussions on the nature of virtue and the influence of superstition. Through these texts, the author explores the conduct of daily life and the philosophical underpinnings of human actions, often drawing on historical examples and the wisdom of Greek and Roman thinkers to illustrate his points. The collection serves as a rich source of insight into the intellectual climate of the early Imperial period and the enduring questions of human morality.