Marcus Aurelius: Philosopher-King
The moving life and legacy of Rome’s great emperor philosopher.
  
This book guides us through the fascinating life and writings of Marcus Aurelius, Stoic philosopher and Roman emperor. Philosopher William O. Stephens explores Marcus’s reluctant rise to power, his marriage, and his efforts to mold his son into a just successor. He examines Marcus’s Stoic tenets as he describes the struggles of dealing with a fifteen—year pandemic, the betrayal of a trusted general, social upheaval centered on a new “superstition” (Christianity), and how Marcus’s determination to stabilize the empire’s borders resulted in strife, broken treaties, and protracted wars. This gripping narrative of Marcus’ life, times, and thought, as well as his complex legacy will appeal to all those interested in Roman history.
 
1147038936
Marcus Aurelius: Philosopher-King
The moving life and legacy of Rome’s great emperor philosopher.
  
This book guides us through the fascinating life and writings of Marcus Aurelius, Stoic philosopher and Roman emperor. Philosopher William O. Stephens explores Marcus’s reluctant rise to power, his marriage, and his efforts to mold his son into a just successor. He examines Marcus’s Stoic tenets as he describes the struggles of dealing with a fifteen—year pandemic, the betrayal of a trusted general, social upheaval centered on a new “superstition” (Christianity), and how Marcus’s determination to stabilize the empire’s borders resulted in strife, broken treaties, and protracted wars. This gripping narrative of Marcus’ life, times, and thought, as well as his complex legacy will appeal to all those interested in Roman history.
 
22.5 In Stock
Marcus Aurelius: Philosopher-King

Marcus Aurelius: Philosopher-King

by William O. Stephens
Marcus Aurelius: Philosopher-King

Marcus Aurelius: Philosopher-King

by William O. Stephens

Hardcover

$22.50 
  • SHIP THIS ITEM
    In stock. Ships in 6-10 days.
  • PICK UP IN STORE

    Your local store may have stock of this item.

Related collections and offers


Overview

The moving life and legacy of Rome’s great emperor philosopher.
  
This book guides us through the fascinating life and writings of Marcus Aurelius, Stoic philosopher and Roman emperor. Philosopher William O. Stephens explores Marcus’s reluctant rise to power, his marriage, and his efforts to mold his son into a just successor. He examines Marcus’s Stoic tenets as he describes the struggles of dealing with a fifteen—year pandemic, the betrayal of a trusted general, social upheaval centered on a new “superstition” (Christianity), and how Marcus’s determination to stabilize the empire’s borders resulted in strife, broken treaties, and protracted wars. This gripping narrative of Marcus’ life, times, and thought, as well as his complex legacy will appeal to all those interested in Roman history.
 

Product Details

ISBN-13: 9781836391166
Publisher: Reaktion Books, Limited
Publication date: 12/18/2025
Series: Great Lives of the Ancient World
Pages: 232
Product dimensions: 5.80(w) x 8.60(h) x 1.10(d)

About the Author

William O. Stephens is professor emeritus of philosophy at Creighton University. His books include Epictetus’s Encheiridion: A New Translation and Guide to Stoic Ethics.
 
From the B&N Reads Blog

Customer Reviews