The Sayings of Macus Aurelius
This collection of personal reflections and musings offers a glimpse into the inner life of a Stoic philosopher-king. The writings are characterized by their introspective nature, with the author grappling with issues of morality, duty, and the human condition. They often take the form of short, aphoristic statements that convey the author's thoughts on topics such as virtue, reason, and the fleeting nature of life.
By Marcus Aurelius · First published 167 · Genre: Philosophy, Biography, History · 2,568 words
First lines
After this he gave up to his sister all that he had inherited from his father, though his mother invited him to share it equally, and replied that he was content with being his grandfather's heir, adding that his mother too, if she were willing, should bestow her property upon his sister, that his sister might be on an equality with her husband.
When however he learnt that he had been adopted by Hadrian, he was more abashed than pleased, and when bidden to migrate to Hadrian's private house, he left his mother's mansion with regret. And when the household asked him why he took his adoption into the royal house so sadly, he enlarged upon the evils inseparable from sovran power.
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The Sayings of Macus Aurelius is listed on Textopian as an essay by Marcus Aurelius, dated 167 CE.
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- Work type: Essay
- Author: Marcus Aurelius
- Date: 167 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophy, Biography, History, Self-help, Classics
- Length: 2,568 words
- Structure: 1 section, 27 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- The Last Words Of Marcus by Marcus Aurelius
- The Way Epigrams Greetings And Inscriptions by Henry Van Dyke
- Of Thinking Humbly Of Oneself by Thomas A. Kempis
- Fragments by Epictetus
- Of Self Esteem by Thomas A. Kempis
Genres
- Philosophy — The text is a collection of philosophical reflections and teachings, focusing on Stoic principles and the nature of power and leadership.
- Biography — The work provides insights into the life and character of a historical figure, detailing personal anecdotes and experiences.
- History — The narrative includes historical events and contexts, such as Roman political and military affairs.
- Self-help — The philosophical teachings offer guidance on personal conduct and ethical living.
Tags
Philosophy · Meditations · Stoicism · Ancient Greek · Wisdom · Self-Improvement · Personal Growth · Spirituality · Ethics · Morality · Existentialism · Human Nature