Marcus Aurelius / Edition 1

by Marcus Aurelius

Overview

Stoic musings of a philosopher-emperor at war.

Marcus Aurelius (AD 121–180), Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, born at Rome, 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 practiced philosophy and law. A gentle man, he lived in agreement and collaboration with Antoninus Pius. He married Pius’ daughter and succeeded him as emperor in March 161, sharing some of the burdens with Lucius Verus.

Marcus’ reign soon saw fearful national disasters from flood, earthquakes, epidemics, threatened revolt (in Britain), a Parthian war, and pressure of 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”) are reflections written in periods of solitude during the emperor’s military campaigns. Originally intended for his private guidance and self-admonition, the Meditations have 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.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780674990647
Publisher:	Harvard University Press
Publication date:	01/01/1916
Series:	Loeb Classical Library , #58
Edition description:	9th printing/1st pub.1916-rev.1930
Pages:	448
Sales rank:	94,328
Product dimensions:	4.25(w) x 6.38(h) x 0.80(d)
Language:	Greek, Ancient (to 1453)

About the Author

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

Table of Contents

Preface

Introduction

Stoicism

Bibliography

Meditations

Book I

Book II

Book III

Book IV

Book V

Book VI

Book VII

Book VIII

Book IX

Book X

Book XI

Book XII

Speeches

Sayings

Note On Christians

Index Of Matters

Index Of Proper Names

Glossary Of Greek Terms

Editorial Reviews

Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, edited and translated by C. R. Haines, is by far the best edition in English… This is a central text for students of Stoicism as well as a unique personal guide to the moral life.

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