The Tragedy of Great Natures: Exploring Plutarch’s Volume IX
In the Comparison of Demetrius and Antony that concludes their section, Plutarch makes several biting distinctions: Plutarch's Lives, Volume IX: Demetrius and Anto...
Plutarch credits Demetrius for winning his own victories, whereas he notes that many of Antony's greatest triumphs were actually won by his generals in his absence. The Tragedy of Great Natures: Exploring Plutarch’s Volume
Plutarch distinguishes their collapses: Demetrius was deserted by his soldiers, but Antony deserted his soldiers by fleeing during battle. Plutarch argues that just as young flute players
The inclusion of these "blameworthy" lives is a deliberate educational tool. Plutarch argues that just as young flute players are shown both good and bad performers to learn distinction, readers are more eager to imitate the good when they see the disastrous consequences of the bad.
Demetrius and Antony are framed as mirrors of one another: both were renowned for their military brilliance, immense generosity, and charismatic leadership, yet both were ultimately undone by their own lack of restraint.