The Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius

The Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius

by George Lang and Marcus Aurelius
Epub (Kobo), Epub (Adobe)
Publication Date: 12/12/2023

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At the intersection of Stoicism and ancient wisdom lies 'The Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius,' an anthology that brings together the meditative insights and philosophical musings of one of Rome's greatest emperors. Edited by renowned Stoic scholar George Lang, this collection spans the broad spectrum of Marcus Aurelius' thought, touching on themes of resilience, ethics, and the nature of humanity. By incorporating a range of literary styles, from contemplative passages to urgent moral injunctions, the anthology provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of Stoic philosophy's applicability to the human condition. The contributing editor, George Lang, brings to the collection a keen understanding of Stoicism's historical and cultural nuances, uniting the timeless wisdom of Marcus Aurelius with contemporary philosophical discourse. This volume aligns with the resurgence of interest in Stoic philosophy, showcasing how these ancient ideas have influenced a wide array of cultural and literary movements across centuries. The editors' and contributors' backgrounds enrich the collection, offering insights into how Stoicism can address modern life's challenges. For those intrigued by philosophy, history, or simply the enduring questions of how to live a good life, 'The Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius' offers a unique opportunity. This anthology invites readers to engage with the profound thoughts of a legendary figure, presented through the lens of diverse interpretations and analyses. It's an enlightening journey through the Stoic mind, fostering a deeper understanding of its principles and their relevance today. Readers are encouraged to explore this collection for its educational insights and the rich dialogue it initiates between Marcus Aurelius' philosophical legacy and contemporary thought.

ISBN:
8596547776192
8596547776192
Category:
Western philosophy: Ancient
Format:
Epub (Kobo), Epub (Adobe)
Publication Date:
12-12-2023
Language:
English
Publisher:
GoodPress
Marcus Aurelius

Marcus Aurelius Antoninus was born in AD 121, in the reign of the emperor Hadrian. At first he was called Marcus Annius Verus, but his well-born father died young and he was adopted, first by his grandfather, who had him educated by a number of excellent tutors, and then, when he was sixteen, by Aurelius Antoninus, his uncle by marriage, who had been adopted as Hadrian's heir, and had no surviving sons of his own. Aurelius Antoninus changed Marcus' name to his own and betrothed him to his daughter, Faustina. She bore fourteen children, but none of the sons survived Marcus except the worthless Commodus, who eventually succeeded Marcus as emperor.

On the death of Antoninus in 161, Marcus made Lucius Verus, another adopted son of his uncle, his colleague in government. There were thus two emperors ruling jointly for the first time in Roman history. The Empire then entered a period troubled by natural disasters, famine, plague and floods, and by invasions of barbarians. In 168, one year before the death of Verus left him in sole command, Marcus went to join his legions on the Danube.

Apart from a brief visit to Asia to crush the revolt of Avidius Cassius, whose followers he treated with clemency, Marcus stayed in the Danube region and consoled his somewhat melancholy life there by writing a series of reflections which he called simply To Himself. These are now known as his Meditations, and they reveal a mind of great humanity and natural humility, formed in the Stoic tradition, which has long been admired in the Christian world. He died, of an infectious disease, perhaps, in camp on 17 March AD 180.

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