Meditations
Marcus Aurelius's sole surviving standalone philosophical work and the essential starting point for his thought.
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Marcus Aurelius Books in Order
Marcus Aurelius (121–180 CE) was Roman emperor from 161 to 180 and a major representative of later Stoicism. His surviving philosophical work, Meditations, is a collection of private Greek notes written chiefly during the latter part of his reign, especially while on military campaigns. His letters and official writings survive in other ancient collections but do not constitute separate standalone books authored solely by him.
philosophyStoicism
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- Meditations
nonfiction · 0180
Written in Greek by an intellectual Roman emperor without any intention of publication, the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius offer a wide range of fascinating spiritual reflections and exercises developed as the leader struggled to…
Frequently asked questions about Marcus Aurelius
Who was Marcus Aurelius?
Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor from 161 to 180 CE and a Stoic philosopher.
When and where was Marcus Aurelius born?
He was born in Rome in 121 CE into a wealthy patrician family.
How did Marcus Aurelius become emperor?
He succeeded his adoptive father, Antoninus Pius, as emperor in 161 CE after receiving extensive education in rhetoric and philosophy.
What influenced Marcus Aurelius’s philosophy?
Stoicism was his chief philosophical influence, particularly the teachings of Epictetus, which Marcus studied with encouragement from his teacher Rusticus. He also engaged with ideas from philosophers including Epicurus and Plato.
Why is Marcus Aurelius still remembered today?
He is remembered for trying to apply Stoic principles to the responsibilities and hardships of imperial rule. His Meditations remains widely read as a personal record of practical ethical reflection.
Sources: plato.stanford.edu (opens in a new tab)yalebooks.yale.edu (opens in a new tab)