Who was Marcus Aurelius?
Q: Who was Marcus Aurelius?
A: Marcus Aurelius Antoninus was a Roman Emperor who ruled from 161 to 180 and was one of the most important Stoic philosophers.
Q: Who did Aurelius rule with as co-emperor?
A: Aurelius ruled with Lucius Verus as co-emperor from 161 until Verus' death in 169.
Q: What is Aurelius known for besides being a Roman Emperor?
A: Aurelius is known for being one of the most important Stoic philosophers and for his work Meditations, which is still revered.
Q: When did Aurelius write Meditations and in what language?
A: Aurelius wrote Meditations in Greek while on campaign between 170 and 180.
Q: What is Meditations and why is it important?
A: Meditations is a work by Aurelius that serves as an example of how he approached the Platonic ideal of a philosopher–king and symbolized much of what was best about Roman civilization. It is important because it is still revered today.
Q: What is the Platonic ideal of a philosopher–king?
A: The Platonic ideal of a philosopher–king is the idea that the best ruler is someone who is not only politically skilled but also a philosopher who possesses wisdom, knowledge, and virtue.
Q: How is Aurelius remembered in history?
A: Aurelius is remembered in history as the last of the Five Good Emperors and one of the most important Stoic philosophers.