Epicurus's great confidant and familiar, Colotes, set forth a book with this title to it, that according to the tenets of the other philosophers it is impossible to live. Now what occurred to me then to say against him, in the defence of those philosophers, hath been already put into writing by me. But since upon breaking up of our lecture several things have happened to be spoken afterwards in the walks in further opposition to his party, I thought it not amiss to recollect them also, if for no other reason, yet for this one, that those who will needs be contradicting other men may see that they ought not to run cursorily over the discourses and writings of those they would disprove, nor by tearing out one word here and another there, or by falling foul upon particular passages without the books, to impose upon the ignorant and unlearned. Now as we were leaving the school to take a walk (as our manner is) in the gymnasium, Zeuxippus began to us: In my opinion, said he, the debate was managed on our side with more softness and less freedom than was fitting. I am sure, Heraclides went away disgusted with us, for handling Epicurus and Aletrodorus more roughly than they deserved. Yet you may remember, replied Theon, how you told them that Colotes himself, compared with the rhetoric of those two gentlemen, would appear the complaisantest man alive; for when they have raked together the lewdest terms of ignominy the tongue of man ever used, as buffooneries, trollings, arrogancies, whorings, assassinations, whining counterfeits, black-guards, and blockheads, they faintly throw them in the faces of Aristotle, Socrates, Pythagoras, Protagoras, Theophrastus, Heraclides, Hipparchus, and which not, even of the best and most celebrated authorities. So that, should they pass for very knowing men upon all other accounts, yet their very calumnies and reviling language would bespeak them at the greatest distance from philosophy imaginable. For emulation can never enter that godlike consort, nor such fretfulness as wants resolution to conceal its own resentments. Aristodemus then subjoined: Heraclides, you know, is a great philologist; and that may be the reason why he made Epicurus those amends for the poetic din (so, that party style poetry) and for the fooleries of Homer; or else, it may be, it was because Metrodorus had libelled that poet in so many books. But let us let these gentlemen pass at present, Zeuxippus, and rather return to what was charged upon the philosophers in the beginning of our discourse, that it is impossible to live according to their tenets.

Plutarch's 'The Works of Plutarch: Essays and Miscellanies' is a collection of essays that delve into a wide range of topics, including morality, ethics, politics, and history. The book is written in a conversational yet profound style, making it accessible to a wide audience while still offering deep insights and reflections. Plutarch's literary context is rooted in ancient Greek and Roman philosophy, with an emphasis on the virtues and vices of famous historical figures. His use of anecdotes and personal reflections adds a personal touch to the otherwise scholarly content. Plutarch's writing style is eloquent and thought-provoking, making his essays a timeless source of wisdom and inspiration. Plutarch, a renowned philosopher and biographer, drew on his vast knowledge of history and philosophy to write these essays. His background in both fields provides a unique perspective that is reflected in the breadth and depth of his work. Plutarch's dedication to exploring the human experience and imparting wisdom is evident throughout the book, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in philosophy, history, or ethics. Readers who appreciate thoughtful reflections on virtue, character, and leadership will find 'The Works of Plutarch: Essays and Miscellanies' to be a rich and rewarding read.