Plutarch's Morals Audiobook - Introduction to Text and Era
1Introduction
Welcome, listeners, to Plutarch's Morals, a treasure trove of ancient wisdom. This collection of essays, meticulously translated by Arthur Richard Shilleto, delves into a vast array of ethical themes, offering guidance on living a virtuous life.
Before we embark on this journey with Plutarch, let's turn the page and meet the man behind the morals.
Plutarch: A Life Devoted to Learning
Plutarch was born around 46 AD in Chaeronea, a small town in Greece. Unlike many of his philosophical contemporaries, he wasn't born into Athenian or Roman aristocracy. Despite his provincial roots, Plutarch's passion for learning was undeniable. He travelled extensively throughout the Roman Empire, immersing himself in Greek and Roman culture. He eventually settled back in Chaeronea, where he established a renowned school and served as a priest at the oracle of Delphi.
Plutarch's life spanned a period of relative peace and prosperity within the Roman Empire. However, cracks were beginning to show. The Pax Romana (Roman Peace) was nearing its end, and philosophical discussions often grappled with anxieties about political instability and moral decline.
A World in Flux
Here's a glimpse into Plutarch's world:
The Rise of Stoicism and Epicureanism: Philosophy was booming. Stoicism, emphasizing reason and duty, and Epicureanism, advocating for pleasure and tranquility, were dominant schools of thought. Plutarch, however, while engaging with these ideas, ultimately leaned towards a more Platonic idealism that emphasized virtue and the pursuit of knowledge.
The Romanization of Greece: Greek culture was deeply admired and adopted by the Romans. Plutarch himself wrote extensively in Greek, but he also embraced Roman traditions and held positions within the Roman administration.
The Seeds of Change: Despite outward stability, the Roman Empire faced internal power struggles and external threats. The seeds of future political turmoil were being sown.
Unveiling the Morals
Plutarch's Moralia, meaning "things concerning character," stands in contrast to his more famous "Lives," which are biographical accounts of illustrious Greeks and Romans. Here, Plutarch focuses on the inner world, offering guidance on topics like anger management, taming envy, cultivating friendship, and finding solace in times of grief.
Through a captivating blend of historical anecdotes, philosophical discussions, and practical advice, Plutarch's Morals remain a timeless resource for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of life and live a virtuous existence.
So, with this context in mind, let's delve into the wisdom of Plutarch and embark on a journey of self-discovery through his insightful essays.
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