Plutarch (up to 50 - after 120 n. e. ), ancient Greek writer, historian and public figure - one of the most famous and popular figures of the ancient world And although the "father of history" was called Herodotus, whom Plutarch disliked for principle reasons, it was not he, but Plutarch for all centuries became a symbol of historical science. The name Plutarch has long acquired a common meaning - back in the 19th century, there was a tradition to call "plutarchs" the publication of biographies of famous people. It is not surprising that in the eyes of the reader Plutarch still remains one of the most attractive authors. The works of Plutarch reflected the best aspects of a harmonious Hellenic worldview: good-natured sincerity, moral warmth, calm moderation in judgments and an optimistic view of the events and shortcomings of people so lacking in our contemporaries.