Meditations

“Calm, in respect of what comes to pass from a cause outside you; justice, in acts done in accord with a cause from yourself.”

Meditations presents the private thoughts of the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius, who in his notes engages in deeply philosophical contemplation of life, strongly influenced by stoicism. Despite the social position of an emperor, Marcus’ life was far from easy, marked as it was by war and life on the frontlines, plague reaping huge numbers of Roman lives, and the early deaths of most of his children, his wife and many of his friends.

Thus, in Meditations we find a philosopher in search of not only fruitful approaches to the difficult parts of our existence, but also one reminding himself how to be thankful, how to enjoy the good, and how to maintain virtue on the side of everything else.

Meditations has provided guidance for generations wrestling with questions of responsibility and adversity – and for those searching for wisdom in general.

In addition to the main text, we include a 32-page section exploring Marcus Aurelius’ life, covering major personal and political developments, key geographical locations, and select influential individuals he interacted with.