Pompey With Agesilaus (Comparison)
Plutarch's Comparison of Pompey with Agesilaus is a short essay in which he compares and contrasts the lives and careers of two famous generals: Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus (Pompey the Great) of Rome (106-48 BC) and Agesilaus II of Sparta (r. 400-360 BC).
Both Pompey and Agesilaus were brilliant military leaders who played a key role in shaping the course of history in their respective countries. Pompey led the Romans to victory in the Sertorian rebellion, the war against the pirates in the Mediterranean Sea, and the war against Mithridates VI Eupator, the king of Pontus. Agesilaus led the Spartans to victory in the Corinthian War and campaigned extensively in Asia Minor.
However, Pompey and Agesilaus also had their differences. Pompey was a wealthy and powerful aristocrat, while Agesilaus was a member of the Spartan royal family. Pompey was known for his ambition and his love of luxury, while Agesilaus was known for his simplicity and his devotion to Sparta.
In the end, Pompey and Agesilaus both met with tragic ends. Pompey was assassinated in Egypt after being defeated by Caesar in the civil war. Agesilaus died in battle while campaigning against the Mantineans.
Plutarch concludes his essay by noting that Pompey and Agesilaus were both complex and controversial figures. They were both brilliant military leaders, but they were also flawed individuals who made mistakes. Their lives are a cautionary tale about the dangers of power and ambition.
Here is a table comparing and contrasting Pompey and Agesilaus:
| Characteristic | Pompey | Agesilaus |
|---|---|---|
| Family background | Wealthy and powerful aristocrat | Member of the Spartan royal family |
| Personal qualities | Ambitious and luxurious | Simple and devoted to Sparta |
| Fate | Assassinated after being defeated in the civil war | Died in battle |
Plutarch's Comparison of Pompey with Agesilaus is a thought-provoking and insightful essay that explores the lives and careers of two of the most famous generals in ancient history. It is a valuable source of information for anyone interested in learning more about the ancient world.