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The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius

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The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius

By: Marcus Aurelius
Narrated by: Walter Covell
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About this listen

 Marcus Aurelius was Roman Emperor from 161 C.E. to his death in 180 C.E. He was destined to be a leader, having beeen born into a prominent family - one related by blood and marriage to rulers and bankers. During his era, Romans who inherited power and vast fortunes were expected to set an example.

Marcus shouldered his responsibilities with a clear sense of honor. He was history's first ombudsman, and if his role as a legislator or conqueror was not great, he did set high standards for emulation. Written in the form of confessions, his meditations provide a window into his insights on duty, virtue, and humility. He was the last of the "Five Good Emperors", and is also considered one of the most important stoic philosophers.

The Meditations, written on campaign between 170 and 180 C.E., is still revered as a literary monument to a government of service and duty, and it has been praised for its "exquisite accent and its infinite tenderness". In fact, John Stuart Mill, in his Utility of Religion, compared The Meditations to the "Sermon on the Mount".

Public Domain (P)1986 Jimcin Recordings Ethics & Morality Greek & Roman History Philosophy Stoicism Meditation

Editor reviews

Marcus Aurelius was the Roman Emperor from 161 to 180 and a major Stoic philosopher. His life and philosophy have endured over the centuries in his volume, The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius.

Originally written in Greek between 170 and 180, Marcus wrote this book for himself as a means of self-improvement. In its 12 sections, Marcus offers his thoughts on introspection, avoiding physical indulgences, and developing a “cosmic” perspective.

Walter Covell’s magisterial but relaxed performance suits the direct style of this influential and widely cherished work of philosophy.
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If you could sum up The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius in three words, what would they be?

Long lost wisdom

Any additional comments?

A personal creed from this stoic emperor who reigned when Christianity was taking hold across the empire. A fascinating and gripping book

Wise and fascinating

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These observations and advice from from Marcus are thought provoking and useful, as well as being very insightful. I also found it really interesting in terms of getting a few glimpses into the times it was written in.

Excellent - also very interesting

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The emperor's meditations are still valid today as they give credit to the notion of unchangeability of human spirit. We may use his helpful knowledge to plough through a difficult day or in a wider sense as an inspiration for self improvement and pursuit of our own happiness. Read it, listen to it you shall not regret it.

Absolute must

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A wholly inspiring and life-changing book, with an amazing voice and command to present it!

A Life-Changing Philosophy

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Marcus have hit the nail on the head, the times and actors change on the stage we call life, but the script is still the same as for human nature haven't changed. Words written 100s of years ago still current today and applicable to modern life. Can recommend to anyone whom interested in more than just going through the motions in life, if most powerful man in world at his time have found reason and humility, it is perhaps a good lesson to us all.

Throughout the centuries the words still ring true.

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