Marcus Aurelius

The Stoic Emperor

By: Donald J. Robertson

Narrated by: Donald J. Robertson

Experience the world of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius and the tremendous challenges he faced and overcame with the help of Stoic philosophy

This novel biography brings Marcus Aurelius (121-180 CE) to life for a new generation by exploring the emperor’s fascinating psychological journey. Donald J. Robertson examines Marcus’s relationships with key figures in his life, such as his mother, Domitia Lucilla, and the emperor Hadrian, as well as his Stoic tutors. He draws extensively on Marcus’s own Meditations and correspondence, and he examines the emperor’s actions as detailed in the Augustan History and other ancient texts.

Marcus Aurelius struggled to reconcile his philosophy and moral values with the political pressures he faced as emperor at the height of Roman power. Robertson examines Marcus’s attitude toward slavery and the moral dilemma posed by capturing enemies in warfare; his attitude toward women; the role of Stoicism in shaping his response to the threat of civil war; the treatment of Christians under his rule; and the naming of his notorious son Commodus as his successor.

Throughout, the Meditations is used to shed light on the mind of the emperor—his character, values, and motives—as Robertson skillfully weaves together Marcus’s inner journey as a philosopher with the outer events of his life as a Roman emperor.

©2024 Donald J. Robertson (P)2024 Yale University Press

A gem for historians and life coaches

Well summarized and interestingly compiled history of the emperor who ruled like solomon thought like Socrates and died a legend.

insightful

A must read for those who want to understand the backstory as "The Meditations" was being written

Worth every minute!

Worth your time!
I listened to this audio book 3x.
Well written.
Solid research.
Educational.
Entertaining.
50% history of Roman Empire.
The other 50% philosophy. and application to MA’s life.
More history than “Think like a Roman Emperor”.
Author reads his book and does a good job.
I also bought the book.
If you like philosophy and Roman history then get this audio book.

A must read for anyone interested in history of Roman Empire during Marcus Aurelius

This audio book was an absolute gem to listen to as it was narrated by author himself. It was written as a literary novel rather than a historical book, it is more a historical fiction i a sense that a lot of the actual events were quoted from different sources and sometimes they were contradictory so the author was left of creating a narrative based on many sources and filling in gaps with creative analysis.

Illuminating biography

This is an excellent biography of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, providing a solid account of his life and the near constant calamities he faced during his reign.

Even more so, it provides great insight on how he applied his Stoic philosophy to the way he faced and overcame those challenges. It’s an excellent introduction to Stoicism, without setting out to be such.

For me, this book helped dispel some widespread myths about Stoicism. Does Stoicism seek emotionless indifference?Marcus Aurelius was known to have wept publicly in the face of tragedy. He was warm and affectionate.

My biggest “aha” moment came when I learned that Stoic “apatheia” did not mean “apathy,” or indifference, but instead freedom from overwhelming, destructive emotions. Apatheia is not emotional indifference, it is emotional mastery.

Detailed history of his life and important relationships

This history provides the human context which generated the emperor’s penetrating stoic writings. I especially learned how influential, rich and socially sophisticated his mother was.

Not as in depth as I was hoping

The author did a great job of explaining events prior to Marcus Aurelius becoming the emperor, but not as much during his actual reign. It was still a good listen, well researched and delivered.

Experience The Life of The Man

As good as it gets. I’m understanding the man as he was created, and how he created himself. A wonderful story of an incredible human being in a raw violent time.

Timeless Wisdom for Today’s Political Uncertainty

Marcus Aurelius, The Stoic Emperor by Donald Robertson is an exceptional audiobook that I highly recommend. Robertson not only writes with clarity and depth but also narrates his own work, adding a personal and authentic touch. His narration is outstanding, reflecting the care he puts into delivering his insights in a way that is both engaging and impactful. This is particularly resonant during times of political change and uncertainty, as the timeless principles of Stoicism offer valuable guidance.

I first discovered Robertson’s work after hearing him on Ryan Holiday’s podcast, and I’ve been a devoted fan ever since. Books like this, which explore Stoic beliefs and their practical applications to daily life, should be required reading for today’s youth. In fact, everyone could benefit from studying philosophy and embracing Stoic virtues to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and resilience. In a culture that seems to have lost touch with its moral and ethical foundations, works like this remind us of the importance of returning to our roots.

Amazing research - most impressive

The author filled in much missing information and context about Marcus’ life in a very interesting and engaging fashion.