Marcus Aurelius
An empire within.
He governed an empire. Above all, he tried to govern himself. Meet the man behind the emperor — and a philosophy for living fully.
How can we act justly in a world beyond our control?
Biography
A child of the Roman aristocracy, a devoted student, a ruler facing war and disease. A life shaped by the tension between an ideal and the realities of power.
02 /Philosophy
Reputation, the past, other people’s behaviour: these are not ours to command. We can, however, work on our judgements, intentions and actions. Drawing especially on Epictetus, Marcus uses this distinction to turn anxiety into available attention. It does not guarantee an outcome; it gives direction to our efforts.
03 /Reading guides
Original introductions to enter the works, discover their central questions and take the reflection further.
04 /Bibliography
Works, testimonies and further readings are distinguished. Dates refer to composition or first publication, as specified in each entry.
A first reading.
Begin with what is yours to choose
A way into Books II, IV and VIII: distinguish the event, the judgment and the response.
MeditationsJustice beyond the self
Read Books V, VI and IX to see why self-command is not enough.
MeditationsTime, change and what matters
A path through Books III, X and XII about no longer postponing life.
Meditations