BONUS: This Is The Stoicism Talk The Navy Banned (Ryan Holiday At The U.S. Naval Academy)

Xenophon's 'Memorabilia' is a collection of Socratic dialogues and anecdotes defending Socrates against charges of impiety and corrupting the youth. Structured as a series of conversations, it portrays Socrates as a moral guide who emphasized virtue, self-discipline, and practical wisdom. The work serves both as an apologia and a philosophical treatise, highlighting Socrates' method of inquiry and his influence on Athenian society.

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 Discourses of Epictetus are a series of informal lectures written down by his pupil Arrian around 108 AD. The philosophy of Epictetus is intensely practical, directing students to focus on their opinions, anxieties, passions, and desires to distinguish what is within their control from what is not. The teachings aim to make people free and happy by living virtuously and 'according to nature.' The Discourses cover a wide range of topics, including friendship, illness, fear, and poverty, and how to acquire and maintain tranquility. They are set in Epictetus' classroom in Nicopolis and reflect his earnest and often humorous style of teaching[3][4][5].

The Enchiridion of Epictetus is a foundational text of Stoicism, offering practical wisdom on how to live a virtuous life by distinguishing between what is within one's control and what is not. It provides guidance on cultivating inner strength and tranquility in the face of life's challenges. Compiled by Arrian, it remains a powerful guide for those seeking to apply Stoic principles in everyday life.

Mein Kampf, written by Adolf Hitler while he was imprisoned following the failed Beer Hall Putsch in 1923, is a two-volume work that combines autobiography and political treatise. The book details Hitler's early life, his experiences during World War I, and his increasing antisemitism and militarism. It outlines his vision for Germany, including the need for Lebensraum (living space) in Eastern Europe, and his racist and anti-Semitic views. The work became the central text of National Socialism and a blueprint for Hitler's policies, including aggressive foreign policy and the persecution of Jews and other minority groups.