 In order to forge a clearer profile of the commentator, it will be useful to compare him to other Aristotelian commentators, such as Alexander of Aphrodisias, Iamblichus, David, and Elias. The Neoplatonists certainly did not consider Alexander to be an impartial commentator on Aristotle. Rather, Simplicius often treats him as someone who stands in firm opposition to the harmony of Plato and Aristotle. As good a text as any to characterise Alexander’s attitude towards Aristotle can be found in the opening words of his De anima: