Plutarch's Lives, Volume I   By: Unknown (46-120?)

Plutarch's Lives, Volume I is an engaging and insightful collection of biographical sketches of famous Greek and Roman figures. The author masterfully weaves together historical facts, anecdotes, and moral lessons to bring these ancient personalities to life. The narrative is compelling and the characters are complex and well-developed, making it easy for readers to become immersed in their stories.

One of the highlights of the book is the author's ability to draw out the humanity of these legendary figures, showing their strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures. The writing is both scholarly and accessible, making it an enjoyable read for both history buffs and casual readers alike.

Overall, Plutarch's Lives, Volume I is a well-crafted and illuminating work that offers valuable insights into the lives of some of the most influential figures of antiquity. Whether you are interested in history, philosophy, or simply enjoy a good story, this book is sure to captivate and educate. Highly recommended.

First Page:

The great Duke of Marlborough, it is said, confessed that his only knowledge of English history was derived from Shakespeare's historical plays, and it would not be too much to say that a very large proportion of educated men, in our own as well as in Marlborough's times, have owed much of their knowledge of classical antiquity to the study of Plutarch's Lives. Other writers may be read with profit, with admiration, and with interest; but few, like Plutarch, can gossip pleasantly while instructing solidly; can breathe life into the dry skeleton of history, and show that the life of a Greek or Roman worthy, when rightly dealt with, can prove as entertaining as a modern novel... Continue reading book >>