Meditations: Marcus Aurelius

by Marcus Aurelius, Meric Casaubon (Translator)

Meditations is a series of personal stoicism writings by Marcus Aurelius, Roman Emperor from AD 161 to 180, recording his private notes to himself and ideas on Stoic philosophy. Marcus Aurelius wrote the 12 books of the Meditations in Koine Greek as a source for his own guidance and self-improvement. It is possible that large portions of the work were written at Sirmium, where he spent much time planning military campaigns from 170 to 180. Some of it was written while he was positioned at Aquincum on campaign in Pannonia, because internal notes tell us that the first book was written when he was campaigning against the Quadi on the river Granova (modern-day Hron) and the second book was written at Carnuntum. It is unlikely that Marcus Aurelius ever intended the writings to be published. The work has no official title, so "Meditations" is one of several titles commonly assigned to the collection. These stoic writings take the form of quotations varying in length from one sentence to long paragraphs.

This elegant edition uses Méric Casaubon original first translation into English and stands apart for its gorgeous design and fine illustrations.

235 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 25, 2022

About the author

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."

Reviews

[Jose · Rating 3 out of 5]

ISBN 9780785839989
Meditations Book Chartwell classics sweetwater books version. small book hardcover,b&N

Borrowed this book to read with intentions of getting my own, the compact size does not bother me. looks elegant and is affordable. the actual text does, many nowadays trying to bring Stoicism back which has some interesting helpful matters but has to be taken as is, book isn't a how to anyways more Of his Own to Himself tips he wrote. interesting nonetheless.