The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius - Paperback

A national bestseller and one of the most influential works of philosophy ever written—the private spiritual exercises of a Roman emperor, offering timeless wisdom on virtue, resilience, and living a meaningful life.

Written in Greek by Marcus Aurelius (121-180 CE) during his campaigns as Roman Emperor, Meditations was never intended for publication. These are the personal reflections of a philosopher-king wrestling with how to live virtuously amid the chaos of war, political intrigue, and the weight of empire. Nearly two millennia later, his insights remain profoundly relevant—a guide to Stoic philosophy and the examined life.

What you'll discover:

• Spiritual exercises on virtue, duty, and the nature of the good life
• Stoic wisdom on accepting what you cannot control and mastering yourself
• Practical guidance on coping with adversity, loss, and difficult people
• Meditations on mortality, impermanence, and living in harmony with nature
• The discipline of perception, action, and will
• How to maintain inner peace amid external chaos
• Timeless insights into leadership, character, and human nature

Gregory Hays's acclaimed translation—the first in nearly four decades—presents Marcus's thoughts with fresh immediacy in clear, unencumbered English. This edition includes a new foreword by Ryan Holiday, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Obstacle Is the Way and Ego Is the Enemy, who explores the enduring relevance of Stoic philosophy for modern life.

About the author: Marcus Aurelius (121-180 CE) was Roman Emperor from 161 to 180 CE and the last of the "Five Good Emperors." A devoted student of Stoic philosophy, he is remembered as the philosopher-king whose private writings became one of the foundational texts of Western philosophy.

Perfect for: Students of philosophy and Stoicism, readers seeking wisdom on resilience and virtue, those interested in ancient Roman history, anyone navigating adversity or leadership challenges, fans of Ryan Holiday's work, and seekers of timeless guidance on living well.

This paperback edition includes 272 pages of profound wisdom—a book to be read, reread, and carried as a companion through life.