This review will likely be somewhat different from most of the other comments about this “new” translation of philosopher-king Marcus Aurelius’ classic “Meditations.”
First, Wikipedia mentions a dozen different English translations, with Hays’ being written in 2002, so, while well done, it’s not necessarily “today” new.
Second, the book does a great job of describing Stoicism but doesn’t really get into any validation of the philosophy itself, leaving the reader on his own about the value of Aurelius’ comments about how to live life. Here is some of what the translator/editor says: Stoicism is a concept derived from the Greek for “painted porch,” where the Stoicism-originating philosopher Zeno was said to have taught at the Agora marketplace in ancient Athens. Stoicism is one of the four major schools of philosophic thought established in the Greek period: Stoicism (Zeno), Epicureanism (Epicurus), Cynicism (Diogenes), and Skepticism (Pyrrho). Seneca the Younger, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius are philosophers who continued the stoic tradition into the Roman period. Stoicism says that virtue is the way to achieve eudemonia ("happiness" or the highest human good) through an ethical way of life devoted to reason. It provides an emotional resilience to misfortune, especially through its calling much of what happens in life as fate, about which humans can do little, so why complain?
As for validation, Stoicism has several modern philosophers criticizing it as tantamount to determinism (no free will), a way to avoid trying hard to change the world, and a way to deaden the pain in moments of loss. Yes, there is great truth in the goal of living life according to reason. Still, there is also value in not always suppressing emotions (or psychosomatic responses to previously made value judgments) as psychologists would advise.
In this respect, I was intrigued by what happened (outside the parameters of Aurelius’ commentary) with his Nero-like son, Commodus. Commodus reigned from 177 (jointly until Aurelius' death in 180) and then another twelve years by himself until his assassination by his wrestling partner in 192 AD at age 31 (at the end of the Pax Romana). Commodus had little interest in administration, leaving it to others who irked Rome's senators by increasing their taxes. He did not continue the frequent warfare known during his father’s reign. While peaceful, Commodus’ rule was known for its abundant intrigues, reversion to dictatorial rule, and creation of his deific personality cult with him fashioned as a new Hercules and/or Romulus. He performed as a gladiator, as loosely portrayed in the movie “Gladiator.” Some historians thought he was not naturally wicked but guileless and brought to his actions through cowardice as a slave to his companions. But was his rejection of Stoicism at least partially the result of his upbringing by Marcus? Consider Marcus’ comment in Book Eleven, #34: “As you kiss your son good night, says Epictetus, whisper to yourself, ‘He may be dead in the morning.’” Is this any way to develop a love for one’s son, or is it a way to stifle it in trying to avoid the pain of future loss (so, since I made sure it won’t hurt, just go ahead and sock it to me)?
As regards the stoic-like “Serenity Prayer” of modern philosopher Reinhold Niebuhr (or his student Winnifred Crane Wygal), consider the pithy challenge to have the wisdom to know the difference between what can and cannot be changed. One will read long and hard throughout Aurelius’ twelve books (many of which dwell upon mortality) of the self-pep-talk “Meditations” to find any sure-fire way to know or even consider the difference. Nevertheless, Aurelius does a great job in commenting on the value of moral character (seeking the truth, deciding what is right, and courageously acting accordingly).
Speaking of moral character and Stoicism, George Washington is said to have absorbed Stoicism from time spent with his brother’s inlaws, the Fairfaxes of Belvoir. Of special note was Washington’s fascination with the stoic character of the noble Roman Senator Cato the Younger in Addison’s play “Cato, a Tragedy,” about the republican martyr Cato’s contention against the dictator Julius Caesar. There’s also the stoic-like “call of duty” example from the virtuous early Roman consul Cincinnatus. As well, in Washington’s youth, he was said to have owned an English outline copy of the principle dialogues of the stoic philosopher Seneca the Younger.
Bottom-line and my commentary aside, Marcus Aurelius’ book in this translation is highly recommended to be read as a classic “Great Book” from one of history’s most notable warrior philosopher-kings.
Of possible interest to those interested in George Washington as a warrior philosopher-definitely-not-wanting-to-be-king, check out the following book detailing the importance of character in securing life, liberty, and the "pursuit of happiness":
George Washington’s Liberty Key: Mount Vernon’s Bastille Key – the Mystery and Magic of Its Body, Mind, and Soul
, a best-seller at Mount Vernon.
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From the Publisher
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| MEDITATIONS JOURNAL | MEDITATIONS EBOOK | |
| Makes the perfect gift for anyone interested in Stoicism! Drawing from the iconic Stoic text Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, this journal will allow readers to deepen their understanding of this philosophy and reflect on how to better their lives. | Discover the eBook edition! Nearly two thousand years after it was written, Meditations remains profoundly relevant for anyone seeking to lead a meaningful life. |
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