Unlocking Ancient Wisdom: Mastering Willpower With Plutarch And Prudentius
Are you finding it hard to say 'no' to others? Struggling to resist the urge to give in to peer pressure? According to Michael Fontaine, a classics professor from the College of Arts and Sciences, the solution might be found in the writings of ancient philosophers and poets. His latest work, 'How to Have Willpower: An Ancient Guide to Not Giving In', brings together texts by Plutarch and Prudentius to provide timeless strategies for resisting external and internal pressures.
Published by Princeton University Press on August 12, the book offers insights into self-control through the perspectives of two different thinkers. Plutarch's “On Resisting Pressure” explores why we often succumb to external forces, such as peer pressure and social embarrassment. He provides practical advice on how to stand firm against these influences, focusing on the reasons people tend to agree against their better judgment.
Prudentius, on the other hand, takes readers into a more allegorical realm with “Armageddon in Mind”. His work depicts an epic battle of wills, using vivid imagery to explore the inner conflict between desires and self-restraint. This approach not only entertains but also challenges readers to think deeply about their own motivations.
Fontaine explains that both authors share a belief in human agency—the idea that we can choose to resist temptation through deliberate effort. While Plutarch emphasizes the power of shame and how it can lead us to make poor choices, he also provides guidance on moderating this emotion without losing our sense of propriety. Prudentius, meanwhile, highlights the importance of humility in overcoming prideful impulses.
Reflecting on his own challenges with willpower, Fontaine candidly admits to struggling with the constant urge to check his phone and reply to emails immediately. He notes that Plutarch would advise focusing on the negative consequences of these habits, while Prudentius might suggest humility as a remedy for the pride that fuels such compulsions.
Ultimately, Fontaine’s book suggests that by revisiting these ancient texts, modern readers can gain fresh insights into managing their impulses and making choices that align with their true interests. Whether grappling with social pressures or personal temptations, these classical and Christian teachings offer valuable lessons for achieving self-mastery today.