- 07/04/2013
- Posted by: essay
- Category: Free essays
When discussing Marcus Aurelius period, it should be noted that these were pre-Christian times. He was influenced by Stoic views, by Epictetus, who represented that philosophy.
The life and state governing of Marcus Aurelius was based on his personal philosophy, and his views were put in the book “Meditations” in a form of a personal diary. It’s important to mention that in Greek the meaning of the book title was ‘To Myself’; it is a spiritual dialogue of Emperor with himself and it wasn’t intended for a public allowance, just for a personal guidance.
He was constantly busy within war actions and state affairs, but he still was an educated man and led a simple and modest personal lifestyle. Marcus Aurelius was considered as a noble and restrained Emperor.
According to his ‘Meditations’ the major importance for the person is to put spiritual and intellectual values over physical or material things.
Stoic philosophy tells its followers to avoid any indulgence. As Marcus Aurelius said “Never regard something as doing you good if it makes you betray a trust or lose your sense of shame or makes you show hatred, suspicion, ill-will or hypocrisy or a desire for things best done behind closed doors.” (III. 7)
The characteristics like humanity, humility, and insight were demonstrated by Marcus Aurelius in his book. He considered that rationality and clear-mindedness are the major conditions of good life.
It ensures us that he was a very suitable person to be the Emperor. It’s clear especially comparing him and the awful tyrant Emperors like Caligula.
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