Plutarch's Morals   By: Unknown (46-120?)

Plutarch's Morals is an insightful collection of philosophical essays that provides readers with a window into the ethical beliefs and values of ancient Greece. While it is unfortunate that the authorship of this compilation remains unknown, the richness of its content makes it a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the moral philosophy of the time.

The book is divided into several sections, each focusing on various aspects of morality, including ethics, virtues, and the human condition. The essays cover a wide range of topics, such as friendship, justice, and the importance of living a virtuous life. Plutarch's thought-provoking ideas challenge readers to critically evaluate their own moral decision-making processes and examine their actions in light of ancient Greek wisdom.

One of the strengths of Plutarch's Morals lies in its ability to bring abstract philosophical concepts into practical everyday context. The ideas presented are not merely intellectual exercises, but rather, they offer guidance and advice on how to navigate the complexities of human existence. For example, the essay on friendship delves into the true nature of this bond and provides insights into how individuals can cultivate and maintain strong and meaningful relationships.

The writing style in this collection is engaging and accessible, considering its ancient origins. The translations successfully convey the essence of the original text, making the often dense philosophical discussions more approachable for contemporary readers. Additionally, the essays are organized in a logical manner, allowing readers to explore them individually or follow a coherent thematic progression.

However, it is worth noting that some readers may find the book challenging due to its dense content and the use of archaic language. Certain passages require careful contemplation and multiple readings to fully grasp their meaning. Nevertheless, this effort is rewarded with profound insights into the Greek understanding of morality and the human condition.

In conclusion, Plutarch's Morals is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in ancient Greek moral philosophy. Despite the unknown authorship, this compilation offers an extensive exploration of ethical principles and virtues, presented in a thought-provoking and accessible manner. While it may be a challenging read at times, the reward is a deeper understanding of the moral beliefs and values that shaped ancient Greek society.

First Page:

Transcriber's note: The original book uses often colons instead of semicolons. Spelling of proper names is different in different pages and some words occur in hyphemated and unhyphenated forms. These have not been changed. A couple of commas and periods have been added or removed to improve the reading and only obvious spelling errors have been corrected... Continue reading book >>