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Title: Platonic Philosophy and Isocratean Virtues in Plutarch's Numa
Author(s): DE BLOIS, L. , BONS, J.A.E.
Journal: Ancient Society
Volume: 23    Date: 1992   
Pages: 159-188
DOI: 10.2143/AS.23.0.2005879

Abstract :
Plutarch’s Numa is essentially a compilation of Roman legends and projections and does not contain much historical evidence. He based this Vita on Hellenistic and Roman legends and took the opportunity to present his version of an ideal ruler, unhindered by historical fact. His discussion of the qualities of this ideal ruler owes much to Greek philosophy and literature, especially to the koine of commonplaces and concepts that was passed down in the rhetorical-literary education of his own time. The Numa shows us a king who, through his ethos and his inspiring example, succeeds in changing the spiritual orientation of the Roman people.


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