MEDITATIONS (Annotated): Contemplations of a Stoic Emperor: Marcus Aurelius' Profound Musings on Virtue, Serenity, and the Human Experience, Offering Timeless Wisdom for Inner Transformation
Unlocking the Wisdom Marcus Aurelius' Meditations offer timeless reflections on life, virtue, and inner peace. Dive into the depths of ancient philosophy as Aurelius shares profound insights to inspire and guide, revealing the power of introspection and the path to a fulfilling existence.
"Very little is needed to make a happy life; it is all within yourself, in your way of thinking." Marcus Aurelius
This includes the author's Bio and historical
"Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius is believed to have been written between 170 and 180 AD, during his reign as Roman Emperor. However, since it was not formally published in the modern sense during his lifetime, the initial publication date would technically be considered posthumous. The first known printed edition of "Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius appeared in Italy during the Renaissance. Specifically, it was published in Rome in the year 1558, in the 16th century.Religion was central to Roman society, with a pantheon of gods and goddesses venerated across the empire. The state religion was distinguished by rites, ceremonies, and festivals dedicated to these deities. Mystery cults and philosophical groups, like Stoicism, also became prominent among certain elements of George Long, born on November 4th, 1800, in Lancashire, England, was a Cambridge-educated scholar, historian, and linguist proficient in Latin and Greek. He breathed new life into ancient works, providing scholarly translations and insightful commentaries. Long's legacy includes illuminating Cicero's Orations, deciphering Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations," and unravelling Epictetus' "Discourses." His contributions endure, immortalizing his name in the annals of scholarly achievement until his passing in 1879. George Long's translation of "Meditations" into English was first published in 1862 in London, United Kingdom.
Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus (often referred to as "the wise") was Emperor of the Roman Empire from 161 to his death in 180. He was the last of the "Five Good Emperors", and is also considered one of the more important Stoic philosophers. His two decades as emperor were marked by near continual warfare. He was faced with a series of invasions from German tribes, and by conflicts with the Parthian Empire in the east. His reign also had to deal with an internal revolt in the east, led by Avidius Cassius.
Marcus Aurelius' work Meditations, written in Greek while on campaign between 170 and 180, is still revered as a literary monument to a government of service and duty and has been praised for its "exquisite accent and its infinite tenderness."