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Marcus Aurelius

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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Marcus Aurelius is a collection of personal reflections by the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, offering insight into his philosophy and wisdom. Known as the Meditations, the book serves as a guide to self-improvement, virtue, and resilience, reflecting stoic principles that advocate for rationality and mindfulness. Written as a personal journal, it provides profound thoughts on leadership, duty, and the human experience.
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This book may appeal to you if you have an interest in philosophy, particularly Stoicism, or if you enjoy exploring historical writings that offer reflections on virtue, self-discipline, and leadership from a Roman emperor's perspective. It provides timeless wisdom and insights into personal growth and resilience, making it a thought-provoking read for those interested in the intersection of personal development and historical context.

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Marcus Aurelius (121 180 CE), philosopher-emperor, wrote the Meditations (his title was The matters addressed to himself) in periods of solitude during military campaigns. His ethical, religious, and existential reflections have endured as an expression of Stoicism, a text for students of that philosophy, and a guide to the moral life.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Marcus Aurelius (121–180 CE), Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, was born in Rome and received training under his guardian and uncle, Emperor Antoninus Pius (reigned 138–161), who adopted him. He was converted to Stoicism and henceforward studied and practised philosophy and law. A gentle man, he lived in agreement and collaboration with Antoninus Pius. He married Pius's daughter and succeeded him as emperor in March 161, sharing some of the burdens with Lucius Verus.

Marcus's reign soon saw fearful national disasters from floods, earthquakes, epidemics, and threatened revolt in Britain, as well as a Parthian war and pressure from barbarians north of the Alps. From 169 onwards, he had to struggle hard against the German Quadi, Marcomani, Vandals, and others until success came in 174. In 175, when Faustina died, he pacified affairs in Asia after a revolt by Avidius. War with Germans was renewed, during which he caught some disease and died by the Danube in March 180.

The famous Meditations of Marcus Aurelius (not his title; he simply calls them 'The matters addressed to himself') represent reflections written during periods of solitude in the emperor's military campaigns. Originally intended for his private guidance and self-admonition, the Meditations has endured as a potent expression of Stoic belief. It is a central text for students of Stoicism, as well as a unique personal guide to the moral life.

Series: Loeb Classical Library

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780674990647

Publisher: Harvard University Press

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 01 January 1916

Country: United States

Imprint: Harvard University Press

Illustration: Indexes

Contributors:

  • Edited and translated by C. R. Haines
  • Edited and translated by C. R. Haines
  • Edited and translated by C. R. Haines

Audience: Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 20.0mm

Width: 108.0mm

Height: 162.0mm

Weight: 340g

Pages: 448

About the Author

Charles Reginald Haines (1876–1935) was Master of Dover College.

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