Meditations

Τὰ εἰς ἑαυτόν — "Things to Oneself"

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Written in Greek by a Roman emperor — never intended for publication. Private notes to himself, composed on campaign and in the palace over roughly a decade. Found among his papers after his death in 180 CE. The most intimate surviving document from the ancient world: a man at the height of power arguing with himself about how to be better.

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Written

~161–180 CE

Language

Greek (Koine)

Author's role

Emperor of Rome

Intended audience

Himself only

First published

~900s CE (Byzantine)

Influences

Epictetus, Zeno, Chrysippus

"You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength."

MARCUS AURELIUS · MEDITATIONS · LIBER IV