S01E01 Meditations - Introduction to Marcus Aurelius

In this opening episode of The Primary Texts, Adam introduces our season-long journey through Marcus Aurelius's Meditations, the private philosophical journal of Rome's philosopher-emperor.

We meet Marcus the man: reluctant ruler who spent his reign at war, devoted student who found Stoicism through a former slave's teachings, and father who buried most of his children. We explore second-century Rome at its turning point, ravaged by plague and threatened by invasion. We trace Stoicism's journey from Zeno's painted porch to an emperor's tent on the Danube frontier. And we preview seven major themes we'll encounter: death and impermanence, the view from above, the inner citadel, social duty despite frustration, opinion versus reality, obstacle as path, and present moment focus.

Through our distinctive two-voice format, you'll hear Marcus's own words alongside modern interpretation, preparing you to engage with one of philosophy's most influential texts.

The Primary Texts provides exhaustive engagement with philosophy's foundational works. Through our distinctive two-voice format, you'll hear the ancient words themselves alongside modern interpretation and application.

Questions or reflections? theprimarytexts@maaoot.org

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