Of Banishment, or Flying One's Country

Of Banishment, or Flying One's Country

In "Of Banishment, or Flying One's Country," Plutarch explores the philosophical and practical aspects of exile, arguing that the perception of banishment as a severe misfortune is largely a matter of personal perspective and societal values. He suggests that the true burden of exile is not the physical separation from one's homeland but the mental and emotional weight individuals place upon it. Plutarch emphasizes that the soul often adds unnecessary weight to external circumstances, making them seem more grievous than they are. He contrasts the views of Polynices, who laments exile as a deplorable state, with those of Alcman, who finds fame and fulfillment in a foreign land, illustrating how personal attitudes shape one's experience of exile. Plutarch argues that the wise can mitigate the bitterness of exile by focusing on the advantages and opportunities it presents, such as freedom from political obligations and the chance to live a life of philosophical contemplation. He suggests that the world is a vast and interconnected community, where no one is truly a stranger, and that the boundaries of one's country are not defined by geography but by the shared experiences and laws of humanity. He cites examples of historical figures who thrived in exile, such as Themistocles and Diogenes, to demonstrate that banishment can lead to personal growth and new opportunities. Plutarch also critiques the societal view that associates exile with disgrace, arguing that it is a superficial judgment based on ignorance. He points out that many revered philosophers and leaders, such as Socrates and Aristotle, lived outside their native lands by choice, seeking intellectual freedom and tranquility. He concludes that true happiness and virtue are not tied to a specific place but are found within oneself, regardless of external circumstances.

By Plutarch · First published 1898 · Genre: Philosophy, Political Philosophy, Essay · 7,789 words

First lines

1. One may say of discourses what they use to say of friends, that they are the best and firmest that afford their useful presence and help in calamities. Many indeed present themselves and discourse with those that are fallen into misfortunes, who yet do them more harm than good. Like men that attempt to succor drowning persons and have themselves no skill in diving under water, they entangle one another, and sink together to the bottom. The discourses of friends, such as would help an afflicted person, ought to be directed to the consolation, and not to the patronage of his sorrows. For we have no need in our distresses of such as may bear us company in weeping and howling, like a chorus in a tragedy, but of such as will deal freely with us, and will convince us that,-as it is in all cases vain and foolish and to no purpose to grieve and cast down one's self,-so, when the things themselves that afflict us, after a rational examination and discovery of what they are, give a man leave to say to himself thus.

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exile · political exile · classical literature · ancient philosophy · moral reflection · moral dilemma · self-determination · civil disobedience · personal sacrifice · social ostracism · freedom · individualism

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