In 138 AD, the Roman Emperor Hadrian rewrote the future of the empire. His chosen heir had died, and he needed a new succession plan. He adopted Antoninus Pius, on the condition that Pius, in turn, adopt a teenager named Marcus Aurelius. At just 16, Marcus was set on a path to absolute power. He accepted the honor not with joy, but with visible reluctance and sadness. He had hoped for the quiet life of a scholar, not the burdens of a throne. To manage the pressure of his new reality, he would turn to Stoicism: a practical philosophy for building character and resilience. Hadrian, seeing his serious nature, gave him the nickname 'Verissimus,' meaning 'Most Truthful.'
Marcus Aurelius & the Philosophy of Stoicism
The story of Marcus Aurelius, who used Stoic philosophy to rule Rome through plague and war, and wrote his private thoughts in the Meditations.
Chapter 1
The Reluctant Heir
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Stoicism?
Stoicism is a practical philosophy for building resilience and character. It teaches that while we cannot control external events, we can control our thoughts and actions, which is the key to inner peace and living a just life.
What are the Meditations?
The Meditations is the private journal of Marcus Aurelius, written in Greek while he was commanding Roman armies. Never intended for publication, it consists of 12 books of personal notes where he reminded himself of his Stoic duties.
Did Marcus Aurelius have a co-emperor?
Yes. Upon becoming emperor in 161 AD, Marcus Aurelius insisted on sharing equal power with his adoptive brother, Lucius Verus. It was the first time the Roman Empire was ruled by two men with the equal title of Augustus.
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