He wrote, “I must make the founder of lovely & famous Athens the counterpart … to the father of … glorious Rome”
On the February 19, 2025, episode of Jeopardy!, the Final Jeopardy category was “The Ancients Speak”. The clue given was:
“He wrote, ‘I must make the founder of lovely & famous Athens the counterpart … to the father of … glorious Rome.'”
Who is Plutarch?
Plutarch (c. 46 – c. 119 AD) was a Greek biographer and philosopher best known for his work Parallel Lives, a series of biographies that compared notable Greek and Roman figures. His intention was to draw moral and character parallels between these figures, emphasizing their virtues and flaws. The quote referenced in the clue comes from his introduction to the biography of Theseus, the mythical founder of Athens, whom he pairs with Romulus, the legendary founder of Rome.
This comparative approach was central to Plutarch’s writing. He sought to highlight not just historical events but also the qualities of leadership, governance, and personal character. By pairing figures like Theseus and Romulus, he underscored the cultural and political legacies of both Greek and Roman civilizations, showing how their foundational myths shaped their respective societies.
Theseus and Romulus: The Founders of Two Great Cities
In Parallel Lives, Plutarch presents Theseus and Romulus as counterparts—both were legendary founders, both had uncertain parentage, and both were known for acts of heroism and leadership. Theseus is celebrated for consolidating Attica into a unified city-state, laying the groundwork for the rise of Athenian democracy. Romulus, on the other hand, is credited with establishing Rome and its early political and military structures, which would later evolve into the Roman Republic and ultimately the Roman Empire.
Plutarch’s writings often reflect his admiration for Greek philosophy and ethics while also acknowledging Rome’s growing dominance. His comparisons aimed to educate Roman readers about Greek history and values, fostering a sense of shared heritage between the two cultures.
The Legacy of Plutarch’s Parallel Lives
Plutarch’s work had a lasting impact on both ancient and modern literature. His biographies influenced Renaissance thinkers, including Shakespeare, who used Parallel Lives as a primary source for plays like Julius Caesar and Antony and Cleopatra. The moral lessons drawn from these historical figures resonated with leaders and scholars throughout history.
His method of comparing influential individuals also set a precedent for later biographical works. By highlighting similarities and differences in leadership styles, he provided insights into governance, ambition, and human nature—topics that remain relevant today.
Why This Clue Matters in Jeopardy!
The selection of this Final Jeopardy clue reflects the enduring significance of classical history in modern intellectual discussions. Plutarch’s work not only preserved stories of ancient leaders but also provided a lens through which to analyze leadership and morality. His influence extends beyond classical studies, impacting literature, philosophy, and political thought.
Understanding figures like Plutarch helps contextualize the foundations of Western historical writing. His ability to bridge Greek and Roman traditions made him one of antiquity’s most important biographers, and his legacy continues to shape historical perspectives centuries later.