Plutarch Facts & Worksheets

Plutarch, born around 46–50 CE in Chaeronea, Greece, was a prominent Greek historian, biographer, and essayist. His most renowned works include “Parallel Lives,” pairing biographies of notable Greeks and Romans, and “Moralia,” a collection of various essays. Plutarch’s influence extends beyond his era, with his emphasis on moral virtues and detailed biographical narratives contributing significantly to the understanding of classical history and philosophy.

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Key Facts & Information

BIOGRAPHY

• Plutarch, a renowned Greek historian, biographer, and philosopher, was born in Chaeronea, Boeotia, around 46–50 CE. Little is known about his early life, but he received a comprehensive education in Athens under the guidance of the philosopher Ammonius. Plutarch’s illustrious career saw him serve as a priest at the Temple of Apollo in Delphi. 
• His enduring legacy rests on his literary contributions, particularly the influential “Parallel Lives,” a collection of biographies comparing notable Greeks and Romans, and “Moralia,” a diverse compilation of essays and dialogues. 
• Plutarch’s works, marked by a blend of historical narrative and moral philosophy, continue to be studied for their profound insights into classical history and virtue. He passed away around 120–125 CE, leaving an indelible mark on ancient literature and thought.

EDUCATIONAL AND OCCUPATIONAL BACKGROUND

• Plutarch, the esteemed Greek historian and philosopher, received his education in Athens, a center of intellectual and philosophical activity during antiquity. Under the tutelage of the philosopher Ammonius, Plutarch honed his intellect and developed a deep understanding of various academic disciplines.
• His educational background laid the foundation for a multifaceted career transcending traditional boundaries. Plutarch not only served as a priest at the Temple of Apollo in Delphi but emerged as a prolific writer, contributing significantly to philosophy, history, and biography. His dual roles as a scholar and a religious figure underscore the interconnectedness of education, philosophy, and spiritual pursuits in his life.

WORKS

• Plutarch was a prolific writer, and his works covered a range of subjects, including history, biography, philosophy, and ethics. Some of his notable works include:
  
  • Parallel Lives: Plutarch’s most famous work, “Parallel Lives,” consists of paired biographies of notable Greeks and Romans. Each pair typically features a Greek and a Roman figure, and the biographies are presented in parallel to highlight similarities and differences. Notable pairs include Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar, and Theseus and Romulus.
  • Moralia: This collection of essays and dialogues covers diverse topics, including ethics, philosophy, religion, politics, and literary criticism. The essays reflect Plutarch’s thoughts on morality and virtue, providing valuable insights into ancient Greek and Roman perspectives.
  • Lives of the Noble Greeks and Romans: This collection includes individual biographies of various historical figures, expanding on the concept explored in “Parallel Lives.” These biographies provide detailed accounts of the lives and characters of influential personalities.
  • Symposiacs: “Symposiacs” is a collection of essays on the theme of dinner-party conversations. Plutarch explores various topics related to social gatherings, offering reflections on customs, manners, and philosophical discussions during symposia.
  • Quaestiones Convivales: In “Quaestiones Convivales,” Plutarch addresses questions related to dining and social customs. The work delves into the cultural aspects of communal meals and the philosophical discussions during such gatherings.

PHILOSOPHICAL INFLUENCE 

• Plutarch’s philosophical influence is notably rooted in Middle Platonism, a philosophical school that developed during the post-Aristotelian period and sought to synthesize Platonic and Aristotelian ideas. His philosophical views, as expressed in his works, particularly in “Moralia,” reflect a blend of Platonic thought, moral philosophy, and ethical inquiry. 
• He emphasized the importance of ethical conduct and virtue in human life. His writings often delve into discussions on moral character, the cultivation of integrity, and the impact of virtuous actions on the well-being of an individual.
• Unlike some purely theoretical philosophers, Plutarch’s philosophy had a practical orientation. He focused on providing guidance for individuals to lead morally upright lives, incorporating philosophical principles into everyday conduct.
• Plutarch’s philosophical works often intertwined with spiritual and religious themes. As a priest at the Temple of Apollo, his writings reflect a connection between philosophy and religious beliefs, exploring the relationship between the divine and the human.
• Plutarch’s influence extended beyond his time, impacting later periods such as the Renaissance. His works became source material for artists, writers, and thinkers seeking inspiration from classical antiquity.
• In “Parallel Lives,” Plutarch used biographies to convey moral lessons. By comparing the lives of notable individuals, he sought to provide readers with examples of virtuous behavior and the consequences of judgment lapses.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

• “Parallel Lives” provides valuable biographical information about notable figures from ancient Greece and Rome. These biographies offer insights into the characters, actions, and historical contexts of individuals such as Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Cicero.
• Plutarch’s “Lives” influenced the English playwright William Shakespeare. Shakespeare drew inspiration from Plutarch’s biographies for several of his plays, including “Julius Caesar,” “Antony and Cleopatra,” and “Coriolanus.”
• The concept of comparing the lives of individuals from different cultures and times, as presented in “Parallel Lives,” has had an enduring influence on the study of history and biography.
• He used biographies not only to recount historical events but also to convey moral and political lessons. The comparison of Greek and Roman figures in “Parallel Lives” provides a didactic tool, offering readers insights into virtuous conduct and leadership.
• Plutarch’s emphasis on moral philosophy and character education has had a lasting impact on educational practices. His works have been used as educational tools to instill moral values and historical awareness.
• Plutarch’s literary style, characterized by a blend of biography, history, and moral philosophy, set a precedent for later writers. His approach influenced the development of the biographical genre and historical writing.
• Plutarch seamlessly integrated philosophical ideas into historical narratives, demonstrating the interconnectedness of philosophy and historical understanding. This approach has influenced how scholars approach the study of history and ethics.
• Plutarch’s works contribute to the historiographical tradition, providing a model for combining historical research with moral and philosophical reflections. His methodology has influenced subsequent historians.
• Plutarch’s biographies, particularly those of statesmen and political leaders, have been studied for their insights into political philosophy and governance. His works have been used to draw lessons and parallels with contemporary political situations.
• Humanist scholars of the Renaissance embraced Plutarch’s works for their depth of thought and the exploration of human virtues.
• The French essayist Michel de Montaigne drew heavily from Plutarch’s essays. Montaigne’s “Essays” reflect Plutarch’s influence as he explores human nature, morality, and the complexities of the self. Plutarch’s narratives have been adapted into various literary forms, influencing poets, novelists, and playwrights beyond Shakespeare. His impact extends to the broader literary canon.
• In summary, Plutarch’s historical significance lies in his role as a biographer, historian, and philosopher whose works not only preserved the stories of ancient figures but shaped the way subsequent generations approach the study of history and ethics.

Plutarch Worksheets

This fantastic bundle includes everything you need to know about Plutarch across 25 in-depth pages. These ready-to-use worksheets are perfect for teaching kids about Plutarch. Plutarch’s influence extends beyond his era, with his emphasis on moral virtues and detailed biographical narratives contributing significantly to the understanding of classical history and philosophy.

Complete List of Included Worksheets

Below is a list of all the worksheets included in this document.

1. Plutarch Facts
2. Understanding Plutarch
3. Learned Facts
4. The Greek Philosopher
5. Word Scramble
6. What If’s
7. Relevant People
8. Time Travel
9. Life Timeline
10. Plutarch Quotes
11. Know More About Him

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Plutarch?

Plutarch was a Greek historian, biographer, and essayist who lived during the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. He is best known for his “Parallel Lives” and “Moralia.”

What is Plutarch famous for?

Plutarch is famous for his “Parallel Lives,” a series of biographies comparing notable Greeks with notable Romans. He’s also renowned for his moral and philosophical essays in “Moralia.”

What is the significance of Plutarch’s “Parallel Lives”?

Plutarch’s “Parallel Lives” is significant for its exploration of character, virtue, and the impact of individuals on history. It offers valuable insights into the lives and personalities of historical figures.

How did Plutarch influence later writers and thinkers?

Plutarch’s works had a profound influence on later writers and thinkers, including Renaissance humanists like Montaigne and modern historians. His emphasis on character and virtue shaped moral philosophy for centuries.

What themes are commonly found in Plutarch’s writings?

Plutarch’s writings often explore themes such as virtue, fate, leadership, and the interplay between individual character and historical events. He also delves into moral philosophy, ethics, and the nature of happiness.

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