Meditations: The Philosophy Classic (Capstone Classics)

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A deluxe special edition of the ancient classic written by the Roman Emperor known as “The Philosopher”

Meditations is a series of personal journals written by Marcus Aurelius, Emperor of Rome from 169 to 180 AD. The last of the “Five Good Emperors,” he was the most powerful and influential man in the Western world at the time. Marcus was one of the leaders of Stoicism, a philosophy of personal ethics which sought resilience and virtue through personal action and responsibility. Stoicism, viewed as a foundation of modern self-help, has inspired many personal development and psychotherapy approaches through to the present day.

Meditations is perhaps the most important source of our modern understanding of Stoic philosophy. Its twelve books chronicle different stages of Marcus Aurelius’ life and ideas. Although he ruled during the Pax Romana, the age of relative peace and stability throughout the empire, his reign was marked by near-constant military conflict and a devastating plague which killed upwards of five million people. Aurelius’ writings give modern readers an unprecedented look into the “spiritual exercises” which helped him through his tumultuous life and strengthened his patience, empathy, generosity, self-knowledge and emotional health. The private reflections recorded in the Meditations were never meant to be published, rather they were a source for Marcus’ own guidance and self-improvement, and jotted down by campfires or in military tents on the Roman front. The lessons, insights and perspectives contained within this remarkable work are just as relevant today as they were two millennia ago. This volume:

  • Presents the timeless wisdom of Emperor Marcus Aurelius and his Stoic philosophy, with new research on his life and times
  • Contains valuable insights on topics such as resilience, moderation and emotional control
  • Discusses how to live “in agreement with nature” and abide by strong ethical principles

Part of the bestselling Capstone Classics Series edited by Tom Butler-Bowdon, this attractive, high-quality hardcover volume includes:

  • An original Introduction by Marcus Aurelius authority and Stoicism expert Donald Robertson, author of How To Think Like A Roman Emperor.
  • A modernised, up to date version of the classic George Long translation.

Meditations: The Philosophy Classic is a volume which will occupy a prominent place in any library for years to come.

From the Inside Flap

The self-reflections of the Roman Emperor known as 'The Philosopher'

Meditations is a series of personal journals written by Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. As one of the leaders of Stoicism, the ancient philosophy considered a foundation of modern self-help, Marcus Aurelius' private reflections give us a first-hand look into his life and guiding principles.

The 'spiritual exercises' which helped Marcus Aurelius through his turbulent life offer you insights on analyzing yourself and others, developing a clear and rational perspective, and maintaining focus without distraction. Featuring commentary from bestselling author and Stoicism expert Donald Robertson, Meditations: The Philosophy Classic will provide you with a complete philosophy of life that will help reveal your sense of purpose and direction in the modern world.

From the Back Cover

The self-reflections of the Roman Emperor known as 'The Philosopher'

Meditations is a series of personal journals written by Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. As one of the leaders of Stoicism, the ancient philosophy considered a foundation of modern self-help, Marcus Aurelius' private reflections give us a first-hand look into his life and guiding principles.

The 'spiritual exercises' which helped Marcus Aurelius through his turbulent life offer you insights on analyzing yourself and others, developing a clear and rational perspective, and maintaining focus without distraction. Featuring commentary from bestselling author and Stoicism expert Donald Robertson, Meditations: The Philosophy Classic will provide you with a complete philosophy of life that will help reveal your sense of purpose and direction in the modern world.

Review:

4.9 out of 5

98.46% of customers are satisfied

5.0 out of 5 stars Thought provoking.

G.W. · 20 October 2024

At times a challenging read, that prompts some thought into the deeper meaning of the text. However very enlightening and interesting throughout.

5.0 out of 5 stars Enjoyable and thoughtfully written

J. · 5 February 2023

Meditations by Marcus Aurelius is a timeless classic that provides a window into the philosophy of Stoicism. The book is a collection of personal reflections written by the Roman emperor himself, offering insights into his thoughts on self-discipline, ethics, and morality.Despite being written over 2,000 years ago, the themes explored in the book remain relevant today and offer a source of wisdom and inspiration for those seeking to live a meaningful life. Whether you are a student of philosophy or simply looking for guidance on how to live well, "Meditations" is well worth reading. You will have to analyse some of the things written from the lenses of the Roman Empire & culture, as it may not be aligned to a modern reader's life views.The book itself is a sturdy hard copy, with limited information. It looks very neat, and would make a good gift for someone potentially interested in philosophy.

5.0 out of 5 stars Wisdom on every page.

R. · 23 June 2024

"If you are pained by any external thing, it is not this thing that disturbs you, but your own judgement about it. And it is within your power to wipe out this judgement now."Meditations is a wonderful collection of thoughts on how to be objective and apply intellect to rise above aimlessness and suffering. To be a better person and more content.Robertson's introduction points out the similarity between stoicism and cognitive behavioural therapy. I am (or was) suspicious of CBT, which sounds suspiciously like brainwashing. But having read Meditations, I think I can now see the reasoning of it.You can open this book on any page to find something inspiring and useful. I've read it through and highlighted dozens of the best soundbites. I'll definitely flick through it in future to remind myself of the principles.The book is easy to read. There's just two or three places where a sentence goes on for half a page, and I struggled to grasp the intended meaning. But as Marcus Aurelius says: "read carefully, and not to be satisfied with a superficial understanding of a book." Most of his meditations are, however, very short and pithy.I could almost cry, knowing the world once had glorious leaders like Marcus Aurelius and today we have the likes of Biden and Johnson. But crying wouldn't be very stoic.

4.0 out of 5 stars A worthwhile read!

N. · 21 February 2020

Hardbound in a strong black binding with its title impressed into the front cover, and a golden sleeve that draws the eye, this new edition of a classic is very well presented. The text is a good size and very easy to read.The author was Caesar for nineteen years and a leader of stoicism but this volume is completed by a 24 page extensive introduction by scholar Donald Robertson. The introduction is incredibly helpful an sets it in context.Aurelius sees black and white, good and evil and lives in a world of absolutes - which may not at first sight go down easily today - which is exactly the value of reading this.The style of his writing is is in short bursts - notes in a journal - expressing ideas as they flow from his brain. Much of it is like the writing of proverbs - just a little more verbose.Whereas strong attention has to be paid to the context, these words are well worth reading and give insight into a popular philosophy of his day. I particularly found his comments about "empty fame" were very relevant to our modern society. Of course his viewpoint is always submersed in his polytheistic theology, but his writings are a great insight into a world that is not so different from our own and from a man whose intelligence is also little different to ours. A worthwhile read that I would recommend, especially to those who like reading a little philosophy for pleasure or for students who want to read around their subject rather than just reading as little as possible.

5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic book

R.H. · 19 July 2024

This book was eye opening and very interesting to read the thoughts of somebody that lived so long ago. The thought processes are words to live by and can still be used today.

5.0 out of 5 stars Nice little book

S. · 28 December 2023

Brought this for my partner. Lovely size book, ideal for travel due to size. Also looks nice and sleek on the bookshelf.

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best books ever written

S.T. · 20 May 2021

First off, if you're reading this, but have never read the book, stop wasting your time, order it now, then come back to my review once that's done.This is a wonderful translation, it has a nice introduction to the man himself and the quality of the binding is solid for a book that costs less than a tenner!There is also something very sexy about a black font on a black cover, although in fairness all of the books I have ordered from the series are the same.Meditations itself was a journal never meant to see the light of day. It is made up of the musings of the last great Roman Emperor, and the last great Stoic Philosopher. Once you read this book, you'll understand why he was considered both. A truly wise man.

5.0 out of 5 stars Best Read in Years

L. · 15 February 2024

Recommend this to anyone with eyes, and get the audio if not. Timeless wisdom from someone who lived their ideals not just virtue signalled over social media. Accountability, responsibility and humanity, what's not to like.

Lots to learn about the oast

r. · 15 October 2024

Very interesting book with lessons in self control and by leading by example.

La vida es simple

R. · 5 August 2023

Cuando aprendemos de lo bueno que cada persona que nos rodea tieneLa vida es muy interesante y simple

fantastic classic.

D. · 24 April 2023

introspection and wisdom - proven by the ages.

A gift to anyone who can read

N. · 4 January 2024

I have a few of these hardcover "Meditations" is in my gift storage. It works for all ages really, as long as the person can read they can pick gems out of this text, heck I would give this to my children. Universal wisdom & knowledge that will be relevant as long as humanity exists.

Great book

Z. · 28 May 2023

wise man told the principles of heart peace, hope you find peace insidegood print and cover

Meditations: The Philosophy Classic (Capstone Classics)

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Product origin: United Kingdom

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