“Do not act as if you have ten thousand years to live... in the face of life, as long as you can, you will make yourself good.”

“Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius (121-180 AD) is a private notebook of philosophical reflections, written by a Roman emperor likely during a military campaign in Germany. Through short, poignant observations, Marcus draws on Stoic philosophy to confront challenges he perceives intensely, yet which are apparent to all people - the orchestrated presence of death, the burden of social roles and plans, the moral significance of the universe. These bring us closer to understanding the personality of the emperor, who was often frustrated by his position and human activities in general. It is, at the same time, a historical document and a sharp spiritual diary.

This translation by Robin Hard highlights the eloquence and universality of Marcus's thoughts. The introduction and commentary by Christopher Gill firmly place the reading in the ancient philosophical social context. A selection of letters from Marcus to his teacher Fronto expands the image of the emperor as a person and thinker.

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Pages: 208, Dimensions: 13.9x13.9cm