Selected Essays of Plutarch, Vol. II.

"Selected Essays of Plutarch, Vol. II" by Plutarch is a compilation of thought-provoking dialogues from the late first century that navigate moral and philosophical questions. The collection focuses on ethical considerations and human virtue, especially as seen through discussions on divine providence, mysterious oracles, and the heroic actions of figures like Socrates and Pelopidas. A key story is the recovery of Thebes from Spartan rule, which sparks conversations about courage, moral philosophy, and the puzzling "divine sign" of Socrates that seemed to guide his behavior, with many references to historical events, philosophical inquiries, and character studies. The book investigates how ethics and virtue show up in human choices and actions.