Selbstbetrachtungen

Meditations

Marcus Aurelius (121–180)

"Selbstbetrachtungen" by Emperor of Rome Marcus Aurelius is a philosophical work written between 170 and 180 CE. Composed in Greek during military campaigns along the Roman Empire's northern frontier, these personal reflections represent the final major contribution of Stoic philosophy. Through aphoristic observations and self-dialogue, the emperor explores reason, duty, and harmony with nature. Written as private guidance rather than public instruction, these meditations reveal the inner life of a ruler striving to balance philosophical ideals with imperial responsibilities.