In the Comparison of Demetrius and Antony that concludes their section, Plutarch makes several biting distinctions:
Neither death is praised. Demetrius is criticized for allowing himself to be captured and "tamed like a wild beast" in prison. Antony ’s suicide, while deemed "pitiful and ignoble," is slightly preferred only because it prevented him from falling into enemy hands. Why Plutarch Wrote Them Plutarch's Lives, Volume IX: Demetrius and Anto...
Through these two lives, Plutarch illustrates the Platonic concept that "great natures produce great vices as well as virtues". A Study in Excess and Self-Destruction In the Comparison of Demetrius and Antony that
A Greek king of the Hellenistic period known for his innovative siege engines and erratic brilliance. Plutarch highlights his loyalty to his father, Antigonus, and his early humanity, but ultimately records a life spiraling into indolence and wine. Why Plutarch Wrote Them Through these two lives,
A powerful Roman general whose life was defined by his relationship with Cleopatra. Plutarch portrays him as a man of great potential who squandered "the most costly outlay"—time—on luxury and diversion. The Point of Comparison: Synkrisis
Plutarch distinguishes their collapses: Demetrius was deserted by his soldiers, but Antony deserted his soldiers by fleeing during battle.
Plutarch’s Parallel Lives , specifically of the Loeb Classical Library edition , presents a fascinating departure from his typical biographical formula. While Plutarch generally highlights virtuous men to inspire imitation, the pairing of Demetrius Poliorcetes and Mark Antony serves as a stark "negative example".