The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius: An Emperor's Advice on Crafting a Life of Virtue, Honor, Harmony, and Happiness

Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus never intended his collection of personal writings to be published, but it has become the foremost work of Stoic philosophy and advice to survive from ancient times.

Described by President Bill Clinton as his favorite book and carried by Secretary of Defense and Marine Corps General James Mattis on deployments throughout his career, the Meditations provides a unique insight on life and leadership from the most powerful man in the world, written in plain language without condescension.

Drawn from his own life and experience, and the teachings of philosophers and mentors he valued, Marcus intended his writings to serve him privately in his earnest attempt to thoughtfully and deliberately craft a life of virtue, honor, and harmony, and thus to attain true happiness: to carve off the rough and imperfect parts of his character and to become, as far as possible, a man perfectly fitted for his purpose in the universe. This was a task which contemporary and later reports suggest he accomplished admirably and elegantly: his reputation as a truly good man endures to this day.

Having lost none of its relevance in the intervening centuries, his wisdom can help any reader achieve the same goal: to think, live, and act in complete agreement with nature.

This edition is translated by Sir George William Chrystal KCB. His translation is not only modern, being accessible to and easily understood by the contemporary listener, but also classical, the words and sentences flowing with a dignified poetry that constantly reminds the reader of the author's august life. This new, American audiobook recording is a joy to listen to, and can itself become a source of meditative calm.

Proudly published in the USA by Carlile Media.

© 2022 Carlile Media (Audiobook): 9781949117288

Translators: Sir George William Chrystal

Release date

Audiobook: 22 September 2022