The Characters of Theophrastus A Translation, with Introduction

"The Characters of Theophrastus" by Theophrastus is a collection of character sketches written in ancient Greece during the late 4th century BC. This work is often recognized as one of the earliest studies of human character types, describing various moral and social defects observed in individuals of his time. Theophrastus, a pupil of Aristotle, provides a unique window into both the personalities prevalent in Athenian society and the timeless qualities of human nature that are still relevant today. The book consists of thirty brief but incisive portraits, each highlighting a different flawed character, from "The Flatterer" to "The Coward," and "The Boor" to "The Avaricious Man." Theophrastus employs a straightforward and vivid style to showcase these character types, often emphasizing their behaviors in everyday situations. Instead of delving into complex narratives or moral judgments, he illustrates how these archetypes manifest in society and interact with others. Consequently, these sketches serve not only as observations but also as a reflection of the human condition, showcasing the absurdities and follies that people continue to exhibit in all cultures and eras. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Theophrastus was an ancient Greek philosopher and naturalist. A native of Eresos in Lesbos, he was Aristotle's close colleague and successor as head of the Lyceum, the Peripatetic school of philosophy in Athens. Theophrastus wrote numerous treatises across all areas of philosophy, working to support, improve, expand, and develop the Aristotelian system. He made significant contributions to various fields, including ethics, metaphysics, botany, and natural history. Often considered the "father of botany" for his groundbreaking works "Enquiry into Plants" and "On the Causes of Plants," Theophrastus established the foundations of botanical science. His given name was Tyrtamos ; the nickname Theophrastus was reputedly given to him by Aristotle in recognition of his eloquent style.