Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aureliuswas Roman Emperor from 161 to 180. He ruled with Lucius Verus as co-emperor from 161 until Verus' death in 169. Marcus Aurelius was the last of the so-called Five Good Emperors. He was a practitioner of Stoicism, and his untitled writing, commonly known as the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius, is the most significant source of our modern understanding of ancient Stoic philosophy...
NationalityRoman
ProfessionPolitician
Date of Birth26 April 121
CityRome, Italy
men endurance endure
Nothing befalls any man which he is not fitted to endure.
done benefits deeds
When you have done a good deed that another has had the benefit of, why do you need a third reward-as fools do-praise for having done well or looking for a favor in return.
giving-up decision abuse
You need to be prepared for firm decisions and action, without losing gentleness towards those who obstruct or abuse you. It's as great a weakness to be angry with them as it is to abandon your plan of action and give up through fear.
ontology infinity logic
Infinity is a fathomless gulf, into which all things vanish.
men judging goodness
Let it judge that nothing is either bad or good which can happen equally to the bad man and the good. For that which happens equally to him who lives contrary to nature and to him who lives according to nature, is neither according to nature nor contrary to nature.
children care reason
If the gods care not for me and for my children, There is a reason for it.
passion men mind
Let thy chief fort and place of defense be a mind free from passions. A stronger place and better fortified than this, hath no man.
simple justice serious
Keep yourself simple, good, pure, serious, and unassuming; the friend of justice and godliness; kindly, affectionate, and resolute in your devotion to duty.
nature ties faults
When we consider we are bound to be serviceable to mankind, and bear with their faults, we shall perceive there is a common tie of nature and relation between us.
character tasks
Your task is to stand straight; not to be held straight.
responsibility perfect people
It is the responsibility of leadership to work intelligently with what is given, and not waste time fantasizing about a world of flawless people and perfect choices.
purpose done
Let no act be done without purpose.
decay transformation thee
All things are in the act of change; thou thyself in ceaseless transformation and partial decay, and the whole universe with thee.
nature benefits whole
Nature insists on whatever benefits the whole.