The Spectacle of Love and Death in Plutarch’s "Life of Antony"
The Spectacle of Love and Death in Plutarch’s "Life of Antony"

Summary/Abstract: Plutarch’s "Life of Antony" provides a fascinating insight into a character of man, who was obsessed by a ruinous love passion toward the Egyptian queen Cleopatra. The main topic of the article is Plutarch’s judgment of the Roman hero’s notorious love affair. It is argued that while being highly critical toward Antony’s numerous flaws, the writer does not condemn him totally. Here the essential reason is love that makes Antony a really tragic figure. His downfall is for Plutarch a kind cautionary tale but the spectacular failure of Antony as a politician and commander not only deserves understanding or reflection but – in some sense – should also be excused.

• Details
• Contents