Meditations
In "Meditations," Emperor Marcus Aurelius invites readers into the mind of a philosopher-king grappling with the chaos of life. Through a series of personal reflections, he explores themes of virtue, resilience, and the pursuit of inner peace amidst external turmoil. Aurelius offers timeless wisdom on how to confront adversity with strength and grace, urging us to embrace the art of mindfulness. His stoic musings provide both solace and guidance for navigating a tumultuous world, encouraging self-examination and the cultivation of character. What can we learn from the thoughts of a ruler who sought tranquility within and around him?
By Marcus Aurelius
Published: 2021
"You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
In one of the world's most famous and influential books, Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius describes the Stoic precepts he used to cope with his life as a warrior and ruler of an empire. Beautiful hardcover edition of a specially modernized version of the classic George Long translation.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Meditations
About the Author
Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius (121-180 AD) was a Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, best known for his work "Meditations," which reflects his personal thoughts on ethics, virtue, and the nature of human existence. Born into a prominent family in Rome, he was educated by some of the greatest minds of his time, eventually ascending to the throne in 161 AD. His reign was marked by military conflict and a plague that devastated the Roman Empire, yet he remained committed to his philosophical principles. As a Stoic, he emphasized the importance of reason, self-discipline, and the acceptance of fate. Marcus Aurelius is often regarded as one of the last of the "Five Good Emperors" and remains a significant figure in the history of philosophy.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Marcus Aurelius
- Published
- November 2021
- Publisher
- Courier Dover Publications
- ISBN
- 0486848531
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 158
- Genres
- Self-HelpPhilosophyMeditation and MindfulnessSpiritual Growth
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
Digital Minimalism
Cal Newport
Ikigai
Héctor García, Francesc Miralles
The Obstacle Is the Way
Ryan Holiday
The Daily Stoic
Ryan Holiday, Stephen Hanselman
Stillness Is the Key
Ryan Holiday
The Argonauts
Maggie Nelson
Poor Charlie's Almanack
Charles T. Munger
12 Rules for Life
Jordan B. Peterson
Zen in the Art of Archery
Eugen Herrigel
The Success Equation
Michael J. Mauboussin
An Autobiography
Mohandas K. Gandhi
Dancing Wu Li Masters
Gary Zukav
Dreaming Yourself Awake
B. Alan Wallace, Brian Hodel
100 Tricks to Appear Smart in Meetings
Sarah Cooper
What Is Zen?
Norman Fischer, Susan Moon
A Brief History of Everything (20th Anniversary Edition)
Ken Wilber
Joyful Wisdom
Rinpoche Yongey Mingyur, Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche, Eric Swanson
The Secret History
Donna Tartt
Creation
Steve Grand
My 60 Memorable Games
Bobby Fischer
What Looks Like Crazy On an Ordinary Day
Pearl Cleage
Cú Chulainn
Daragh Smyth
The Endurance
Caroline Alexander
Thinking Body, Dancing Mind
Chungliang Al Huang
I Like You
Amy Sedaris
The Upanishads
Eknath Easwaran
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
Deepak Chopra
The Science of Getting Rich
Wallace D. Wattles
The Revolt
Menachem Begin
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
James Clear's Book Recommendations
James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.
View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View Collection
Chip Conley's Book Recommendations
Chip Conley is a renowned American hotelier, author, and strategic advisor celebrated for his innovative approach to hospitality and leadership. He founded Joie de Vivre Hospitality, which became the second-largest boutique hotel company in the United States, and later served as the Head of Global Hospitality and Strategy at Airbnb. Conley has authored several influential books, including "Peak: How Great Companies Get Their Mojo from Maslow" and "Wisdom@Work: The Making of a Modern Elder," which explore themes of leadership, emotional intelligence, and the intergenerational workplace. His writings have inspired many to rethink business practices and the role of wisdom in professional environments. Conley's contributions extend beyond literature, as he is a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the realms of hospitality and personal development.
View Collection
Eric Jorgenson's Book Recommendations
Eric Jorgenson is an author, investor, and product strategist best known for his book The Almanack of Naval Ravikant, which distills the wisdom of the entrepreneur and angel investor Naval Ravikant. Jorgenson's work focuses on personal development, wealth creation, and life philosophy. His ability to synthesize complex ideas into actionable insights has made his writing widely popular among entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts. Beyond writing, Jorgenson has worked in product strategy at Zaarly, a marketplace for home services, and is involved in early-stage startup investing. He frequently speaks on the intersection of business, technology, and philosophy, and his blog covers topics ranging from mental models to entrepreneurship. Jorgenson's approach emphasizes learning from others' experiences and applying timeless principles to modern challenges. He continues to inspire a generation of readers with his clear, thoughtful reflections on how to live a more successful and fulfilling life.
View Collection
Brendon Burchard's Book Recommendations
Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.
View Collection
Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations
Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.
View Collection
Aubrey Marcus's Book Recommendations
Aubrey Marcus is an influential entrepreneur, author, and podcaster, best known for founding Onnit, a health and wellness company dedicated to optimizing human performance. He authored the acclaimed book "Own the Day, Own Your Life," which offers practical advice on improving daily routines for overall well-being. Marcus's contributions to literature extend through his insightful podcasts and articles that delve into personal development, mental health, and holistic living. As a thought leader, he has inspired countless individuals to pursue a balanced and fulfilling life. His work continues to resonate with a global audience, promoting a message of self-empowerment and holistic health.
View Collection
Jordan Hughes's Book Recommendations
Jordan Hughes is a celebrated author known for their compelling narratives and richly developed characters. Their debut novel, "Echoes of Tomorrow," won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, marking a significant milestone in contemporary fiction. Hughes's work often explores themes of identity, resilience, and the human condition, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. In addition to their novels, Hughes has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary journals, further solidifying their influence in the literary world. Their innovative storytelling continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
View Collection
Joe Rogan's Book Recommendations
Joe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.
View Collection
Elizabeth Filips's Book Recommendations
Elizabeth Filips is a celebrated contemporary author known for her poignant and thought-provoking novels that explore the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Her debut novel, "The Silent Echo," garnered critical acclaim for its deep character development and lyrical prose, earning her a nomination for the prestigious Man Booker Prize. Filips' ability to weave intricate narratives has established her as a distinctive voice in modern literature. She is also an advocate for mental health awareness, often incorporating these themes into her writing to shed light on personal struggles and resilience. In addition to her novels, Filips has contributed essays and short stories to various literary magazines, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile and impactful writer.
View Collection
Jimmy Dore's Book Recommendations
Jimmy Dore is a prominent American comedian, political commentator, and author known for his incisive critiques of mainstream media and politics. He gained widespread recognition through "The Jimmy Dore Show," a popular YouTube series and podcast that blends humor with sharp political analysis. Dore's written work includes the book "Your Country Is Just Not That Into You," where he employs his comedic prowess to dissect social and political issues facing America. His contributions to literature and media have made him a distinctive voice in progressive circles, often challenging conventional narratives. Beyond his writing, Dore's influence extends through his performances and public speaking engagements, where he continues to engage and provoke thought among his audience.
View Collection
Austen Allred's Book Recommendations
Austen Allred is an influential entrepreneur and author, best known for his contributions to the education technology sector. He co-founded Lambda School, a groundbreaking online coding bootcamp that offers deferred tuition and has revolutionized access to tech education. In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Allred is the author of "The Grassfed Startup," which provides insights into building sustainable businesses. His innovative approach to education has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the tech industry. Allred continues to inspire with his commitment to making high-quality education accessible to all.
View Collection
Adam Robinson's Book Recommendations
Adam Robinson is a distinguished author, financial advisor, and co-founder of the Princeton Review, which revolutionized the test preparation industry. He is renowned for his best-selling book "Cracking the SAT," which has guided countless students to achieve higher scores. Robinson's expertise extends beyond education into financial markets, where he is a respected global macro advisor. His contributions to literature and finance have earned him a reputation as a thought leader and innovator. Continually sought after for his insights, Robinson remains a pivotal figure in both the educational and financial sectors.
View Collection“You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”
Meditations
By Marcus Aurelius
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.