Marcus Aurelius

Note: the following is a fictional memoir written from the perspective of Marcus Aurelius. While the narrative is imaginative, the details are based on historical understanding of his life, and all quotes are sourced from his texts.

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"Have I done something for the general interest? Well then I have had my reward. Let this always be present to thy mind, and never stop doing such good."

I was born on April 26, 121 AD, in the great city of Rome, into the responsibility of a prominent Roman family. My father was a respected politician, but he passed away when I was very young. After that, my grandfather and mother raised me. Both had an important impact on my life. My grandfather taught me good morals and the government of my temper. My mother taught me piety, beneficence, and abstinence, not only from evil deeds but even from evil thoughts, and further, simplicity in my way of living, far removed from the habits of the rich. And both ensured I received an excellent education.

In these early years of learning, I became fascinated with philosophy after one of my tutors introduced me to its profound teachings. Later, another tutor, a distinguished Stoic philosopher, further shaped my understanding by introducing me to Stoicism. But, more than just interesting learning, it changed my life. This discipline teaches the development of self-control, fortitude, and rationality as a means to achieve inner peace and wisdom. Furthermore, it emphasizes living in harmony with nature, accepting the present moment, and understanding that some things are beyond our control. It became my foundation for how to live, work, and lead.

While my philosophical convictions deepened, my path in life became more clear. Though I considered myself a philosopher, I was given the responsibility to one day govern. This life direction was set for me by the Emperor at the time, Hadrian. The Emperor, aware of the potential instability that could arise from a lack of clear succession, sought to establish a stable line of future emperors. He first adopted Lucius Aelius Caesar as his heir, but Lucius's untimely death in 138 AD prompted Hadrian to adopt Antoninus Pius, a respected and capable consul.