Plutarch (46 - 119 AD) was a Greek philosopher and biographer born in the city of Chaeronea. He wrote over 200 books, most of which have survived to this day, but his most notable work is "Parallel Lives," a collection of 48 biographies of Greek and Roman figures, including legendary characters.
This specific volume of "Parallel Lives" places side by side two great figures of the Hellenic period: Alexander the Great - King of Macedonia, unifier of the West, and conqueror of Asia, and Julius Caesar - skillful military and political strategist. Plutarch's brilliantly achieved goal is to compare the profiles of these leaders, showing their values, common points, and differences.
Plutarch is considered one of the greatest Greek philosophers, and his works are of paramount importance for a better understanding of classical culture, politics, and philosophy.