On Monarchy, Democracy, and Oligarchy

Plutarch. Plutarchi Chaeronensis Moralia, Vol. V. Vernardakēs, Grēgorios N., editor. Leipzig: Teubner, 1893.

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This short treatise addresses the fundamental question of political philosophy: what is the best form of government (politeia). Following a political dialogue, the author begins the discussion by outlining various definitions and historical classifications of constitutions. Based on Platonic thought, the work compares major forms of government, namely monarchy, democracy, and oligarchy. Ultimately, using the metaphor of tuning a musical instrument to illustrate harmony in governance, the author concludes that monarchy is the most excellent form of government.