Marcus Aurelius: A Guide for the Perplexed

William O Stephens author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Continuum Publishing Corporation

Published:17th Nov '11

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

Marcus Aurelius: A Guide for the Perplexed cover

Exploration of the life and philosophical reflections of this complex Stoic philosopher and Roman emperor.

Provides an introduction to the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius Antoninus. This is a guide for understanding this Stoic author - the only philosopher who was also an emperor.This title presents the exploration of the life and philosophical reflections of this complex Stoic philosopher and Roman emperor. This book is a clear and concise introduction to the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius Antoninus. His one major surviving work, often titled 'meditations' but literally translated simply as 'to himself', is a series of short, sometimes enigmatic reflections divided seemingly arbitrarily into twelve books and apparently written only to be read by him. For these reasons Marcus is a particularly difficult thinker to understand. His musings, framed as 'notes to self' or 'memoranda', are the exhortations of an earnest, conscientious Stoic burdened with the onerous responsibilities of ruling an entire empire. William O. Stephens lucidly sketches Marcus Aurelius' upbringing, family relations, rise to the throne, military campaigns, and legacy, situating his philosophy amidst his life and times, explicating the factors shaping Marcus' philosophy, and clarifying key themes in the Memoranda. Specifically designed to meet the needs of students seeking a thorough understanding of this key figure and his major work, "Marcus Aurelius: A Guide for the Perplexed" is the ideal guide for understanding this Stoic author - the only philosopher who was also an emperor. "Continuum's Guides for the Perplexed" are clear, concise and accessible introductions to thinkers, writers and subjects that students and readers can find especially challenging - or indeed downright bewildering. Concentrating specifically on what it is that makes the subject difficult to grasp, these books explain and explore key themes and ideas, guiding the reader towards a thorough understanding of demanding material.

A fine addition [to the Guides for the Perplexed series]. Stephens has written widely on Stoic ethics, and his writing has a lucid and pleasant style . . . a reliable and helpful guide. -- Rogier L. van der Wal, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam * Bryn Mawr Classical Review *
Marcus’s Meditations are a source of inspiration and curiosity. Why did Marcus write the book? ... And what is the lasting significance and impact of the text? William O. Stephens’s Marcus Aurelius: A Guide for the Perplexed does an admirable job of answering these questions ... Among the book’s virtues is the fact that it is not a rambling exercise in historical erudition or critique. It is primarily an exegesis of the Meditations. Its other primary virtue is found in Stephens’s passionate prose, which effectively channels the spirit of Marcus and ancient Stoicism. -- Andrew Fiala * Ancient Philosophy *

ISBN: 9781441108104

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 274g

208 pages