Plutarch on boasted wisdom, fortitude, magnanimity, and temperance

Book excerpt: A satire on the boasted wisdom, fortitude, magnanimity, and temperance of man, in the form of a dialogue between Ulysses in the island of Circe, and Gryllus, whom she had changed into a swine, and who now prefers his swinish condition to a return to the human form; Ulysses asks Circe for permission to restore his companions to the human shape. Circe will grant the request if the men themselves desire it. Gryllus, one of them, is brought forward to answer in behalf of the entire company. He refuses, and gives his reasons. He says that by making him and his companions beasts, Circe has done them a great favour. Beasts have more fortitude than men; they fight in fair, open combat, without trick or artifice; they are no cowards, they never cry for mercy. Beasts are courageous and daring, even the females; while the courage of men is artificial, and women are timid. Beasts are more temperate and chaste then man; they indulge their appetites only in a natural way, and at the proper season. Beasts do not value silver or gold. They have no adventitious desire. Their senses are more accurate. Beasts are satisfied with one kind of food, and this procured without difficulty; they have nature for their teacher, and could teach men many useful lessons. Men are incontinent: they indulge unnatural and excessive appetites; and are never satisfied.