About the project

This is a running commentary on Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. This work has captivated the world for centuries, and I have been fascinated by it for years. I've read it again and again, trying to understand it. Marcus was a practical philosopher - he wanted to know how to live, not how to write a philosophical treatise.

I am primarily posting George Long's translation, for the simple fact that it is in the public domain. My favourite translation, however, is C.R. Haines' which is published by Loeb Classical Library. I also use George Hays superb new translation to check the other two. At times I will mention if there are disagreements between the translators.

I also use the excellent Letters of Cornelius Fronto, and the Histories of Cassius Dio for background information. I will also be using the works of Seneca and Epictetus. Marcus was familiar with Seneca, but Epictetus was his spiritual father. One of the best modern works on Marcus Aurelius is the biography by Anthony Birley.