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."
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.
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.
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“You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”
Meditations
By Marcus Aurelius
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