Source edition
Plutarch. Plutarchi Chaeronensis Moralia, Vol. IΙI. Vernardakēs, Grēgorios N., editor. Leipzig: Teubner, 1891.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA (per Perseus's terms)
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This philosophical essay explores the essential differences and similarities between two negative human emotions: envy and hate. The author begins by defining these emotions, noting that while hate arises from a rational repulsion toward evil or a defensive fear—feelings shared even by animals—envy is an unjustified reaction to the good fortune of others and is unique to human relations. In the latter half, the work utilizes various metaphors and examples, such as the growth of plants, the prosecution of Socrates, and the relationship between light and shadow, to analyze the distinct nature of these two passions. It contrasts how envy and hate react differently to benefits received or misfortunes suffered, vividly illustrating their respective psychological mechanisms. Ultimately, the work guides the reader to a systematic understanding of the decisive boundaries that separate these seemingly similar emotions.