Plutarch, whose full name is Lucius Mestrius Plutarchus, was a prominent Greek biographer and philosopher born around 46 AD in Chaeronea, a small town in Boeotia, Greece. He lived during a time when the Roman Empire was at its height, which influenced much of his writing. Plutarch passed away around 120 AD, likely in Delphi, where he served as a priest of Apollo, reflecting his deep engagement with both philosophical inquiry and religious life.

Plutarch's early life is not extensively documented, but it is known that he received a thorough education in philosophy, rhetoric, and literature, likely influenced by the prevailing Hellenistic culture. His formative years were spent in an intellectually rich environment, which helped shape his later thinking and writing. This blend of Greek and Roman traditions would later become a hallmark of his literary contributions.

His literary career is most notable for the "Parallel Lives," a series of biographies that pair Greek and Roman figures, such as Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar, to draw moral lessons from their lives. This work not only serves as a historical account but also as a moral guide, reflecting Plutarch's belief in the importance of character and virtue. In addition to the "Lives," Plutarch wrote a collection of essays and dialogues known as the "Moralia," which explores various philosophical, ethical, and social issues, further showcasing his wide-ranging intellectual interests.

In his personal life, Plutarch married a woman named Timoxena and had several children, balancing his literary pursuits with family responsibilities. His dual heritage as a Greek and a Roman, combined with his roles as a writer, priest, and educator, allowed him to navigate and influence both cultures. Plutarch's legacy endures as a foundational figure in both biography and moral philosophy, and his works continue to be studied for their insights into personal character and ethical conduct.