Marcus Aurelius: A Guide for the Perplexed - (Guides for the Perplexed) by William O Stephens (Paperback)

Name: Marcus Aurelius: A Guide for the Perplexed - (Guides for the Perplexed) by William O Stephens (Paperback)
SKU: 1011232728
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Details

Highlights

This book is a clear and concise introduction to the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius Antoninus.
About the Author: William O. Stephens is a Professor of Philosophy and of Classical & Near Eastern Studies at Creighton University, Nebraska, USA.
208 Pages
Philosophy, History & Surveys
Series Name: Guides for the Perplexed

Description

About the Book

Exploration of the life and philosophical reflections of this complex Stoic philosopher and Roman emperor.

Book Synopsis

This book is a clear and concise introduction to the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius Antoninus. His one major surviving work, often titled 'meditations' but literally translated simply as 'to himself', is a series of short, sometimes enigmatic reflections divided seemingly arbitrarily into twelve books and apparently written only to be read by him. For these reasons Marcus is a particularly difficult thinker to understand. His musings, framed as 'notes to self' or 'memoranda', are the exhortations of an earnest, conscientious Stoic burdened with the onerous responsibilities of ruling an entire, enormous empire.
William O. Stephens lucidly sketches Marcus Aurelius' upbringing, family relations, rise to the throne, military campaigns, and legacy, situating his philosophy amidst his life and times, explicating the factors shaping Marcus' philosophy, and clarifying key themes in the Memoranda. Specifically designed to meet the needs of students seeking a thorough understanding of this key figure and his major work, Marcus Aurelius: A Guide for the Perplexed is the ideal guide for understanding this Stoic author - the only philosopher who was also an emperor.

Review Quotes

A fine addition [to the Guides for the Perplexed series]. Stephens has written widely on Stoic ethics, and his writing has a lucid and pleasant style . . . a reliable and helpful guide.
Bryn Mawr Classical Review

Marcus's Meditations are a source of inspiration and curiosity. Why did Marcus write the book? ... And what is the lasting significance and impact of the text? William O. Stephens's Marcus Aurelius: A Guide for the Perplexed does an admirable job of answering these questions ... Among the book's virtues is the fact that it is not a rambling exercise in historical erudition or critique. It is primarily an exegesis of the Meditations. Its other primary virtue is found in Stephens's passionate prose, which effectively channels the spirit of Marcus and ancient Stoicism.
Ancient Philosophy

About the Author

William O. Stephens is a Professor of Philosophy and of Classical & Near Eastern Studies at Creighton University, Nebraska, USA.

Specifications

Dimensions (Overall): 8.4 Inches (H) x 5.4 Inches (W) x .5 Inches (D)

Weight: .65 Pounds

Suggested Age: 22 Years and Up

Number of Pages: 208

Genre: Philosophy

Sub-Genre: History & Surveys

Series Title: Guides for the Perplexed

Publisher: Continuum

Theme: Ancient & Classical

Format: Paperback

Author: William O Stephens

Language: English

Street Date: January 19, 2012

TCIN: 1011232728

UPC: 9781441108104

Item Number (DPCI): 247-10-2297

Origin: Made in the USA or Imported

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Estimated ship dimensions: 0.5 inches length x 5.4 inches width x 8.4 inches height

Estimated ship weight: 0.65 pounds

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