Plutarch's Prism: Classical Reception and Public Humanism in France and England, 1500–1800

Plutarch's works were widely translated into French and English during the Renaissance and were used in political arguments from the early modern period to the 18th century. Rebecca Kingston's new study explores how Plutarch was translated and how his works were invoked in political argument, contributing to a tradition of public humanism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 456 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Political theorists in France and England delved into the works of Plutarch during the early modern period, seeking guidance for kings and princes. Notably, Elizabeth I herself translated Plutarch in her later years, while Jacques Amyot's renowned translations of Plutarch's The Parallel Lives played a pivotal role in disseminating his work and serving as a valuable resource for Shakespeare in the composition of his Roman plays. Sir Thomas North's English translations further contributed to the widespread accessibility of Plutarch's writings. In her groundbreaking study, Rebecca Kingston explores the translation of Plutarch into French and English during the Renaissance, examining how his works were invoked in political arguments from the early modern period to the 18th century. This book then traces the evolving uses of Plutarch in the Enlightenment, leading to a decline of the tradition she refers to as "public humanism." Throughout, Plutarch's work is emphasized as a significant cultural reference and for its profound insights into crucial aspects of public service.

ISBN-13: 9781009243469