Marcus Aurelius

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Marcus Aurelius ruled Rome from 161 AD until his death in 180 AD. He shared power with Lucius Verus from 161 until Verus' passing in 169. Marcus Aurelius was the last ruler known for being one of the so-called Five Good Emperors. A philosopher and student of Stoicism, he wrote Meditations, an untitled work that has become a fundamental resource for understanding ancient Stoic philosophy. During his time as emperor, Rome successfully defeated a renewed Parthian Empire in the East. In 164, Aurelius' general, Avidius Cassius, captured the capital Ctesiphon. Meanwhile, Aurelius fought the Marcomanni, Quadi, and Sarmatians with success in central Europe during the Marcomannic Wars. However, the threat of Germanic tribes presented a growing concern for Rome's stability. A rebellion led by Avidius Cassius failed to gain momentum and was quickly suppressed. Marcus Aurelius' Meditations, written in Greek between 170 and 180 while he was on campaign, is still celebrated as a literary monument to his philosophy of service and duty. His writings emphasize finding balance in the midst of conflict by following nature's guidance and inspiration.