Plutarch, born around AD 46 in Chaeronea, Boeotia, was a prominent Greek philosopher, historian, and biographer. He hailed from a distinguished family and pursued studies in mathematics and philosophy in Athens under the tutelage of Ammonius. Throughout his life, Plutarch maintained close relationships with notable Roman figures, reflecting his integration into both Greek and Roman societies.His most renowned work, Parallel Lives, comprises a series of biographies pairing notable Greeks and Romans to highlight their moral virtues and vices. This collection offers profound insights into human nature and has significantly influenced Western literature and thought. Additionally, Plutarch's Moralia encompasses a diverse array of essays and speeches on ethical, religious, and philosophical topics, further showcasing his intellectual versatility.Beyond his literary contributions, Plutarch served as a priest at the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, underscoring his active engagement in religious and civic life. He was also a vegetarian, reflecting his philosophical views on ethics and the treatment of animals. Plutarch's works continue to be studied for their rich historical content and enduring reflections on morality and human behavior.
John Dryden was a prominent English poet, playwright, critic, and translator who played a pivotal role in shaping English literature during the Restoration period. John Dryden was born into a Puritan family in North amptonshire England. Dryden showed early promise in literature and languages, excelling in Latin and Greek studies. Dryden's literary career began in earnest during the tumultuous years of the English Civil War and the Interregnum. He initially gained recognition for his poetry, which included elegies, odes, and satires. His early works often reflected his political views and engaged with contemporary issues. Role in Restoration Literature, With the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, Dryden's fortunes changed. Dryden's impact on English drama was profound. He wrote several plays, including heroic tragedies, comedies, and adaptations of classical works. His most famous plays include ""All for Love"" (a tragedy based on Antony and Cleopatra), ""The Indian Emperor,"" and ""The Spanish Friar."" His plays often adhered to neoclassical principles, emphasizing unity of action, decorum, and moral theme. poetic Works . His critical essays, such as ""An Essay of Dramatic Poesy,"" ""Discourse Concerning the Original and Progress of Satire,"" and ""Preface to Fables, Ancient and Modern,"" were instrumental in defining literary norms and theories of his time. His translations included works from Latin, Greek, and French literature, bringing classic texts to a wider English-speaking audience. Legacy, John Dryden's legacy is multifaceted and enduring. He is regarded as one of the greatest English writers of the Restoration period, known for his contributions to drama, poetry, criticism, and translation. His influence extended well beyond his lifetime, shaping subsequent generations of writers and critics. Dryden's works continue to be studied for their literary merit, historical context, and insight into the cultural and political landscape of 17th-century England.
American essayist, editor, and critic Hamilton Wright Mabie (1846-1916) was born in Cold Spring, New York, on December 13, 1846. Known for his contributions to journalism, children's literature, and literature, he rose to prominence as a literary force in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Mabie started out in journalism, employed by the New York Evening Post. Afterwards, he became an associate editor on the editorial board of the weekly journal Christian Union. As an editor, he had the ability to shape American readers' tastes in literature. In addition to his work as an editor and critic, Mabie promoted children's literature. He edited and put together a number of anthologies with the goal of introducing young readers to classic tales and folktales from throughout the globe, such as "Myths That Every Child Should Know" (1905) and "Folk Tales Every Child Should Know" (1905). He was a literary critic, essayist, and supporter of the usefulness of literature in forming young people's imaginations and cultural values.
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