Source edition
Plutarch. Plutarchi Chaeronensis Moralia, Vol. V. Vernardakēs, Grēgorios N., editor. Leipzig: Teubner, 1893.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA (per Perseus's terms)
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This critical work evaluates and contrasts the styles and literary values of two major ancient Greek comic playwrights, Aristophanes and Menander. The author begins by comparing their diction and expressive styles, criticizing Aristophanes for his lack of consistency and disregard for the traits of his characters. In contrast, Menander is highly praised for his harmonious and universal power of expression. Furthermore, the work rejects Aristophanes' poetic style as coarse, malicious, and unacceptable to both the general public and intellectuals. On the other hand, it commends Menander for his universal grace and divine, refined wit, arguing that his comedies possess the power to heal people's minds in both theaters and banquets. Through this sharp contrast, the work illuminates the ideal form of refined comedy.