Marcus Aurelius
Roman Emperor & Philosopher · Roman
121 AD – 180 AD
The last of the Five Good Emperors, Marcus Aurelius ruled Rome while maintaining a deeply philosophical inner life. His private journal, later published as 'Meditations,' became one of the most influential works of Stoic philosophy.
Core Values
What Marcus prioritized and lived by, ranked by importance.
Fulfilled his role as emperor despite preferring philosophy
Constant practice of controlling emotions and reactions
Pursuit of philosophical understanding over pleasure
Fair treatment of all citizens regardless of status
Despite being emperor, saw himself as a servant of Rome
How They Spent Their Time
A typical distribution of how Marcus allocated their energy and attention.
Managing the empire and defending borders
Morning and evening journaling, contemplation
Maintaining physical discipline
Teaching his children, meeting with advisors
Letters, reading, sleep
Guiding Principles
"You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength."
"Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one."
"The object of life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane."
"Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together."
What They Sacrificed
- Spent most of his reign at war, away from the philosophical life he preferred
- Endured the death of multiple children
- Faced constant political intrigue and assassination plots
- Suffered from chronic illness while maintaining his duties
Their Legacy
- Meditations - one of the most read philosophy books in history
- Model of the 'philosopher king' ideal
- Expanded Roman citizenship and improved legal rights for slaves
- Established precedent for thoughtful, ethical leadership
Learn More
Would you consider Marcus's life a "good life"?
What would you embrace? What would you do differently?