Cicero's 'Tusculan Disputations' is a series of philosophical dialogues exploring how to achieve happiness and tranquility in the face of adversity. Written after the death of his daughter, Cicero draws on Stoic and Academic philosophy to examine the nature of suffering, death, and the role of virtue in overcoming life's challenges. He argues that true happiness is found not in pleasure or external goods, but in the cultivation of wisdom, reason, and moral excellence. The dialogues cover topics such as the fear of death, the acceptance of pain, and the importance of self-control. Cicero champions the power of philosophy to console and guide individuals toward a life of virtue and inner peace.
This book compiles the complete surviving works of Epictetus, a prominent Stoic philosopher. It includes his Discourses, which were transcribed by his pupil Arrian, the Handbook (Enchiridion), a practical guide to moral self-improvement, and various Fragments. Epictetus's teachings focus on distinguishing between what is within our control and what is not, accepting nature's course, and living a virtuous life through rigorous self-discipline. Edited and translated by Robin Waterfield, this collection brings Epictetus's insights to modern readers on how to cope with various life challenges.
Tacitus, a Roman historian and senator, wrote several significant works, including the Annals and Histories. His writings provide valuable insights into the Roman Empire, particularly the reigns of the Julio-Claudian and Flavian emperors. Known for his sharp observations and critical perspective, Tacitus's works offer a nuanced portrayal of Roman politics, society, and military campaigns. His style is characterized by its conciseness and powerful imagery, making his accounts both informative and engaging.
Meditations is a series of private writings composed by Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome's greatest emperors, as he struggled to understand himself and make sense of the universe. Written between 170 and 180 CE while on military campaigns, this work combines Stoic philosophy with personal observations on leadership, duty, mortality, and human nature. Through twelve books of intimate thoughts never intended for publication, Marcus Aurelius explores themes of self-improvement, resilience in the face of adversity, and living virtuously while accepting what cannot be changed.
The Nicomachean Ethics is Aristotle's most renowned work on ethics, focusing on the science of the good for human life. The text is divided into ten books and discusses the concept of eudaimonia, often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing,' which is achieved through living a virtuous life. Aristotle argues that eudaimonia is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue, emphasizing the importance of reason, moral virtues, and the pursuit of excellence. The work also explores the division of the soul, the role of rationality in human life, and the ultimate goal of human activity, which is to achieve happiness through virtuous actions and a complete life[1][2][4].
It’s no secret that the American Founding Fathers were deeply inspired by the Classics. The words of the ancient Greek and Roman philosophers suffuse the original documents and ideas that built America.
Today Anya is joined by Jeffery Rosen to talk about how ancient ideas of virtue inspired these pivotal figures in American history.
Hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/
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Jeffery Rosen is an American legal scholar who serves as the president and CEO of the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. He has written frequently about the U.S. Supreme Court and is author of several books, including his most recent: The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America.
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