Marcus Aurelius

Philosopher-King

By: William O. Stephens

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Hardcover | 1 October 2025

At a Glance

Hardcover
240 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
22.3 x 14.9 x 2.7

Hardcover

$41.99

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The moving life and legacy of Rome’s great emperor philosopher.

This book guides us through the fascinating life and writings of Marcus Aurelius, Stoic philosopher and Roman emperor. Philosopher William O. Stephens explores Marcus’s reluctant rise to power, his marriage, and his efforts to mould his son into a just successor.

He examines Marcus’s Stoic tenets as he describes the struggles of dealing with a fifteen-year pandemic, the betrayal of a trusted general, social upheaval centred on a new 'superstition' (Christianity), and how Marcus’s determination to stabilise the empire’s borders resulted in strife, broken treaties, and protracted wars. This gripping narrative of Marcus’s life, times, and thought, as well as his complex legacy will appeal to all those interested in Roman history.

About the Author

William O. Stephens is professor emeritus of philosophy at Creighton University. His books include Epictetus’s Encheiridion: A New Translation and Guide to Stoic Ethics.

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