# A Treatise of Human Nature — Character guide

> Key figures in A Treatise of Human Nature by David Hume.

- [David Hume](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/a_treatise_of_human_nature_se/characters/david_hume.md): Hume positions himself as both scientist and specimen, proposing to apply the experimental method of reasoning to moral subjects and inviting the public to judge the result. The tension is built into his method: he wants
- [Alexander](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/a_treatise_of_human_nature_se/characters/alexander.md): Historical figure referenced in philosophical examples about ambition and conquest.
- [Themistocles](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/a_treatise_of_human_nature_se/characters/themistocles.md): Athenian general cited in examples about pride and esteem.
- [Spinoza](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/a_treatise_of_human_nature_se/characters/spinoza.md): Philosopher whose system is discussed and critiqued in the treatise.
- [Julius Caesar](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/a_treatise_of_human_nature_se/characters/julius_caesar.md): Roman general referenced in examples about fame and historical reputation.
- [Cyrus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/a_treatise_of_human_nature_se/characters/cyrus.md): Historical king mentioned in discussions of ambition and power.
- [Mr. Locke](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/a_treatise_of_human_nature_se/characters/mr_locke.md): Philosopher whose ideas are referenced and critiqued throughout the work.
- [Plato](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/a_treatise_of_human_nature_se/characters/plato.md): Ancient philosopher mentioned in discussions of ideas and philosophy.
- [Germanicus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/a_treatise_of_human_nature_se/characters/germanicus.md): Roman general referenced in examples about fame and reputation.
- [Cornelia](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/a_treatise_of_human_nature_se/characters/cornelia.md): Roman matron cited in examples about pride and family.
- [Mr. Philips](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/a_treatise_of_human_nature_se/characters/mr_philips.md): Contemporary figure referenced in philosophical examples.

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