The Ancients Marcus Aurelius: The Philosopher Emperor
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Oct 19, 2025 Professor William Stephens, an expert in Stoicism, dives into the life of Marcus Aurelius, the philosopher-emperor of Rome. They explore how Aurelius balanced philosophy and warfare, ruling during crises like plagues and invasions. Stephens highlights his enduring popularity, Stoic influences, and the complexities of his reign, including his reluctant embrace of leadership alongside Lucius Verus. The discussion reveals deep philosophical insights from Aurelius's writings and the challenges he faced, making his reflections surprisingly relevant today.
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Why Marcus Is Famous Today
- Marcus Aurelius's fame stems primarily from his private Stoic journal, traditionally called the Meditations but better seen as personal memoranda.
- William Stephens argues the work's intimate, practical reflections explain Marcus's modern popularity.
Which Stoics Survive In Texts
- The available Stoic writings we rely on are mainly late Roman Stoics: Seneca, Epictetus, Musonius Rufus, and Marcus Aurelius.
- These texts shape modern Stoicism more than the original early Stoic corpus does.
Groomed To Rule By Adoption
- Hadrian and Antoninus Pius groomed Marcus from childhood and formal adoption made him heir.
- Marcus accepted the role as duty rather than ambition, shaped by his upbringing and mentors.
