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Plutarch's Lives of the Gracchi is a historical book that was first published in 1892. The book is a collection of biographies written by Plutarch, a Greek philosopher and historian, about two brothers named Tiberius and Gaius Gracchus. The Gracchi were Roman politicians who lived in the second century BC and were known for their populist reforms and advocacy for the rights of the lower classes.Plutarch's biographies provide a detailed account of the lives of the Gracchi, including their upbringing, education, political activities, and eventual deaths. The book also offers insight into the political and social climate of ancient Rome during the Gracchi's time, including the struggles between the ruling aristocracy and the common people.Plutarch's writing style is engaging and informative, making the book an excellent resource for anyone interested in ancient Roman history or political philosophy. The book is also relevant to modern-day politics, as it explores themes of social justice, inequality, and the role of government in addressing these issues.Overall, Plutarch's Lives of the Gracchi is a fascinating and informative read that offers a unique perspective on one of the most important periods in ancient Roman history.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
About the author
Plutarch (c. AD 46 - c. 120), later named, upon becoming a Roman citizen, Lucius Mestrius Plutarchus, was a Greek biographer and essayist, known primarily for his Parallel Lives and Moralia. Plutarch was born to a prominent family in the small town of Chaeronea, about 80 kilometres (50 mi) east of Delphi, in the Greek region of Boeotia. Plutarch studied mathematics and philosophy at the Academy of Athens under Ammonius.
Plutarch lived most of his life at Chaeronea, and was initiated into the mysteries of the Greek god Apollo. For many years Plutarch served as one of the two priests at the temple of Apollo at Delphi, the site of the famous Delphic Oracle, twenty miles from his home. He probably took part in the Eleusinian Mysteries. By his writings and lectures Plutarch became a celebrity in the Roman Empire, yet he continued to reside where he was born, and actively participated in local affairs, even serving as mayor. At his country estate, guests from all over the empire congregated for serious conversation, presided over by Plutarch in his marble chair.
Plutarch was also a magistrate at Chaeronea and he represented his home town on various missions to foreign countries during his early adult years. Plutarch held the office of archon in his native municipality, probably only an annual one which he likely served more than once. He busied himself with all the little matters of the town and undertook the humblest of duties.
