Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor and philosopher-king (121-180 C.E.), wrote the "Meditations" for personal reflection rather than publication. Despite the chaotic backdrop of his reign, including wars and a plague, his Stoic philosophy emphasized internal power and personal virtue. His thoughts on good governance remain relevant today, yet they were largely ignored in his lifetime. His legacy as a philosopher-king emerged only after the posthumous publication of his writings during the Renaissance, influencing generations through their focus on introspection and equanimity.
"Look within. Within is the fountain of good, and it will ever bubble up, if thou wilt ever dig." Marcus Aurelius emphasizes self-reflection as a source of virtue.
"You have power over your mind, not outside events." This central tenet of Stoic philosophy highlights the distinction between internal control and external chaos that Marcus faced.
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