MEDITATIONS
A new edition of a beloved classic
Meditations by the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius was the first book that we selected to be printed entirely on black paper.
This extraordinary collection of writings is the perfect starting point for this new publishing venture.
Created between 161 and 180 AD, Meditations is widely considered to be one of the most influential books ever written. A collection of the personal writings of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, Meditations sets out the Stoic precepts and philosophies that guided his life and offers a unique insight into the mind of one of the great historical figures of Classical antiquity.
Although it has become one of the most important examples of Stoic philosophy, it is likely that Meditations was never meant to be published. The collection was written as a personal journal for guidance and reflection, a way for Marcus Aurelius to marshal his own thoughts while on military campaigns, and does not even have a formal title.
As you might expect from the writings of a military man, and an emperor no less, Meditations is not simply a theoretical work of philosophy. It analyzes reality from the perspective of Marcus Aurelius himself, showing how people are both players and authors of their own reality. We may not have the power to choose the events that occur in our life, but we do have the power to react to them as we see fit. This is one of the guiding principles of Stoicism and a key part of the book’s resonance throughout history.
Stoicism
Stoicism is an Ancient Greek ethical philosophy founded by Zeno of Citium in Athens in the 3rd century BC. It is one of the most accessible and relevant philosophies, directly applicable to the real world, and has been hugely influential throughout history.
Stoicism teaches acceptances of the moments and the things that happen to us, and how not to be driven or controlled by desire or fear. It can help us be more resilient, happier, and more virtuous, and has influenced great figures throughout history, from Frederick the Great to George Washington.
Stoicism is based around four virtues; courage, temperance, justice, and wisdom. People are judged by Stoicism not by what they say, but by what they do, and by following the Stoic principles it becomes a far easier task to overcome life’s challenges.
Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius ruled the Roman Empire from 161 to 180 AD and is considered to be one of the most influential figures in the history of Stoicism. He was described centuries later by Nicolo Machiavelli as the last of the Five Good Emperors, and his death brought about the end of the Pax Romana, a period of peace, stability, and prosperity.
Meditations offers a unique insight into the mind of this giant of history, a way to step beyond the veil of historical interpretation and read the thoughts, musings, and personal philosophies of this great figure.
Contemporary society is fraught with stress and uncertainty, which makes Stoicism the perfect inspiration and guide, and Meditations the perfect choice for our first publication.