Here are three great achievements of Marcus Aurelius:
- He emerged victorious in the war with the Parthian Empire. ...
- Fought Germanic Invaders When the war with the Parthians was over, Aurelius and Verus squarely faced Germanic tribes . ...
- Legal Accomplishments of Marcus Aurelius
What did Marcus Aurelius do for Rome?
The Roman public loved Marcus Aurelius, and he did his best to provide for his citizens through trying times, such as the Antonine Plague. His greatest accomplishment as Emperor was his ability to hold the Empire together through the Roman Empire's first true pandemic, the Parthian War, and the Germanic Wars.
What happened to Marcus Aurelius'ashes?
Marcus Aurelius' ashes were put in Hadrian's mausoleum. Marcus Aurelius was succeeded by his biological heir, in contradistinction to the previous four good emperors. Marcus Aurelius' son was Commodus.
Why was Marcus Aurelius called the last good emperor?
Marcus Aurelius was the last of what are referred to as the Five Good Emperors. These emperors did not rely on dynastic succession but selected the ablest candidates as their successors. They were also known as the Five Good Emperors since their method of nominating successors prevented civil war for almost 100 years.
What book did Emperor Aurelius write?
Emperor Aurelius is credited with authoring a philosophical book titled “Meditations”. Below is a short biography as well as the major achievements of Marcus Aurelius:
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What is Marcus Aurelius best known for?
Marcus Aurelius reigned as Roman emperor from 161 to 180 CE and is best known as the last of the Five Good Emperors of Rome (following Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian, and Antoninus Pius) and as the author of the philosophical work Meditations.
What did Marcus Aurelius do as a philosopher?
The second century CE Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius was also a Stoic philosopher, and his Meditations, which he wrote to and for himself, offers readers a unique opportunity to see how an ancient person (indeed an emperor) might try to live a Stoic life, according to which only virtue is good, only vice is bad, and the ...
Who was the greatest Roman emperor?
AugustusGaius Octavius Thurinus, also known as Octavian or “Augustus,” served as the first official emperor of the Roman Empire, and is often seen by historians as the greatest.
What did Aurelius accomplish?
His greatest accomplishment as Emperor was his ability to hold the Empire together through the Roman Empire's first true pandemic, the Parthian War, and the Germanic Wars. He was also able to navigate ruling with co-Emperor, Lucius Verus, his adoptive brother.
How did Aurelius lose power?
In 161, Aurelius took control of the Roman Empire along with his brother Verus. War and disease threatened Rome on all sides. Aurelius held his territory, but was weakened as a ruler after the death of his brother Verus.
Is Marcus Aurelius a good emperor?
Known for his philosophical interests, Marcus Aurelius was one of the most respected emperors in Roman history. He was born into a wealthy and politically prominent family. Growing up, Marcus Aurelius was a dedicated student, learning Latin and Greek.
Who was the worst emperor of Rome?
Nero (Nero Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus) (27–68 CE) Nero is perhaps the best known of the worst emperors, having allowed his wife and mother to rule for him and then stepping out from their shadows and ultimately having them, and others, murdered.
Who was the coolest Roman emperor?
5 of Rome's Greatest EmperorsAugustus.Trajan 98 – 117 AD. Marcus Ulpius Trajanus (53 –117 AD) is one of consecutive Five Good Emperors, three of whom are listed here. ... Hadrian 117 – 138 AD. ... Marcus Aurelius 161 – 180 AD. ... Aurelian 270 – 275 AD.
Why was Marcus Aurelius called the philosopher king?
He saw himself as a student of philosophy, not as a “philosopher”, and as a man struggling to fulfill his obligations to the people who had faith in him, not as an “emperor”. It is precisely his humble view of himself which makes him the ideal candidate as the Philosopher King.
Was Marcus Aurelius a good philosopher?
More than other Stoic philosophers like Epictetus or Seneca, the Meditations reveal that Marcus Aurelius was a philosophical disciple rather than a philosophical innovator. He disciplined himself and committed his life to practicing the Stoic disciplines of desire, action, and proper judgment.
Who is known as the king of philosophers?
Socrates' answer is known as "the paradox of the philosopher king" and is stated dramatically at 473d: the way to bring about a just state is to have it ruled by philosophers, or what is commonly called "the Philosopher-King." This conclusion would naturally be felt as paradoxical by most of Socrates' listeners because ...
Who introduced the term philosopher king?
In The Republic, Plato argues that kings should become philosophers or that philosophers should become kings, or philosopher kings, as they possess a special level of knowledge, which is required to rule the Republic successfully.
What is Marcus Aurelius famous for?
He truly attempted to live his philosophy. Aurelius became famous for The Meditations, a collection of his thoughts, Stoic beliefs, and notes on his life.
What did Aurelius do as a consul?
He would hold this office twice more in his lifetime. As his training continued, Aurelius maintained his interest in philosophy.
Why did Marcus Aurelius change his name?
After the death of his adoptive father in 161 CE, Aurelius changed his name to Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus to emphasize his connection to the previous emperor. This was a frequent practice for emperors throughout the history of the Roman Empire. Aurelius ruled with his adoptive brother Lucius Verus as his co-emperor. Together, they battled the Parthians to secure the eastern borders of the empire. Foreshadowing the tetrarchy (a system of multiple emperors adopted over a century later) Verus conducted the war effort while Aurelius governed in Rome. The campaign was successful.
What was the philosophy of Emperor Pius Antonius?
His true love, however, was Stoicism, a moral philosophy dedicated to reason and self-restraint. Emperor Pius Antonius, who was adopted by Emperor Hadrian after his successor died, also adopted Marcus Aurelius when Aurelius was about 17 years old, at Hadrian's insistence. Aurelius began his training to run the Empire.
What language did Marcus Aurelius speak?
Marcus Aurelius was born on April 26, 121 CE, into a wealthy Roman family. He mastered Latin and Greek , both commonly used languages in the Roman Empire. His true love, however, was Stoicism, a moral philosophy dedicated to reason and self-restraint. Emperor Pius Antonius, who was adopted by Emperor Hadrian after his successor died, also adopted Marcus Aurelius when Aurelius was about 17 years old, at Hadrian's insistence.
Why were the Five Good Emperors called the Five Good Emperors?
They were also known as the Five Good Emperors because their method of nominating successors prevented civil war for almost 100 years. paywall_marcus-aurelius-contributions-accomplishments. 5:06.
Who led the war effort while Aurelius governed in Rome?
Foreshadowing the tetrarchy (a system of multiple emperors adopted over a century later) Verus conducted the war effort while Aurelius governed in Rome. The campaign was successful. Aside from protecting the eastern borders, the adoptive brothers needed to secure the northern border from German tribes.
Marcus Aurelius Accomplishments Overview
The Philosopher King, Marcus Aurelius, is well respected in annals of history. He reigned from 161 CE to 180 CE, and during that time he was well loved by his people. His rule was not an easy one. He had to navigate through a plague, invasions from Germanic tribes, and financial crisis. He was also far from a perfect emperor.
Marcus Aurelius Facts and Background
Marcus Aurelius was the last of "Five Good Emperors," a phrase coined by Machiavelli in the 15th century. This period, which took place during the Nerva-Antonine dynasty, is defined by the emperors adopting suitable heirs rather than choosing biological children as successors.
Marcus Aurelius' Accomplishments
While he got his start as Consul of Rome, Marcus Aurelius would go on to be considered a great emperor in Roman history, not for any flashy accomplishments or grand achievements, but for his ability to administrate the empire without the usual Roman corruption.
Who was Marcus Aurelius?
Marcus Aurelius: Biography, Meditations, and Achievements. Marcus Aurelius was an emperor of ancient Rome . Aurelius, whose reign spanned from 161 CE to 180 CE, has often been listed among the Good Roman Emperors. He is also famous for his Stoic ideas and ways of living. Emperor Aurelius is credited with authoring a philosophical book titled ...
How old was Marcus Aurelius when he was adopted?
Hadrian had ordered Antoninus to adopt Marcus Aurelius and one of Commodus’ sons. With this arrangement, the 17-year-old Marcus was bound to become a co-ruler. Aurelius spent many years as an apprentice under Titus Antoninus – this was clarified by Fronto (Marcus Aurelius’ teacher).
What are some of the best quotes from Marcus Aurelius?
Written at the time of anti-Barbarian campaigns, the book contains life teachings that we can all relate to. Here are some selected sayings and lines from Marcus Aurelius’ “Meditations”: 1 In one quote, Aurelius made an important statement about how one can be happy; happiness comes from concentrating on present tasks, satisfaction with present activities, having less expectations, little fears and avoiding being distracted – with this, no man can stop your joy. 2 The book also stated that, people may see you as a beast (an ape), but if you are able to stick to reason, within a matter of 10 days, you will be be seen as a god. 3 We can’t control people’s thoughts. Therefore, their opinions shouldn’t bother us much. Happiness lies in our own minds. 4 Don’t be quick to vent your anger at the mistakes or afflictions of others, but help them to find a solution. 5 Understand that death is real; no man has lived for 1000 years. Make the best possible impact before you die. 6 Do not be an enemy of change; change is necessary for growth. 7 Wrongdoers aren’t always people who do things; by failing to do something good, you are a wrongdoer.
How old was Marcus Aurelius when he started his meditation?
While embarking on campaigns, he conceived his “Meditation” ideas. At that time, Aurelius was about 50-years-old. This already sent signals about his journey to philosophy. Aurelius was a well-known Stoic: he believed in using reason to understand nature.
What happened to Aurelius in 124 CE?
Around 124 CE, Aurelius lost his father; and for the most part of his upbringing, he was brought up by handmaids and nurses. He also spent a significant amount of his time with his grandfathers. During his early years, Aurelius got exposed to philosophical concepts.
What is Marcus Aurelius' meditation?
Meditations refer to the philosophical writings/ideas of Marcus Aurelius. His self-advisory notes (book) gained an immense readership and following in philosophy. After over 2,000 years, Aurelius’ Meditation work still finds applications in our daily lives. The writings touch on philosophy, happiness, emotions, morality, personal development and mindfulness.
What is Emperor Aurelius's book called?
Emperor Aurelius is credited with authoring a philosophical book titled “Meditations”. Below is a short biography as well as the major achievements of Marcus Aurelius:
Why is Marcus important?
Marcus was a well-known person due to his intellectual pursuits. He was known for his philosophical interests, Aurelius was one of the most respected emperors through out the whole Roman history. Marcus was born with a wealthy and politically family member.
Who was the leader of the Roman Republic?
Of those great leaders of the Roman Republic was none other than Cincinnatus.Cincinnatus is a well known leader from that era and in fact the root of his name is in the city of Cincinnati.He was not only a famous political leader,he was a philosopher that showed deep content for his people.Originally he was born in a very rich palace home where they were called the alkimia where he was raised and taught to be an aristocrat but then his family lost the farm and became farmers.The Olympic games were founded before he was born and were quite gruesome while Pisistratus had already introduced free loans which was another tremendous accomplishment.As the tyrant Hippaus slid towards the scope of madness Cincintus wondered if all was well in his beloved
What is the history of Julius Caesar?
The Life of Julius Caesar The History staff uses facts and evidence to support their claim that Julius Caesar is often remembered as one of the greatest military minds in history and credited with laying the foundation for the Roman Empire . The History Staff supports their claim by including his life before he was known for his many achievements and the First Triumvirate that started his career. The History Staff uses the many battles he fought in or led to also support their claim. The History Staff concludes with the events that led up to the death of Julius Caesar. The author uses these many facts to support their claim so as to create a scholarly and accurate argument.
Who was Mark Antony?
Mark Antony was a Roman general who served in the Gallic wars with Caesar and would go on to serve with Caesar again in the Civil War that took place in Rome before Caesar took over Rome. After Caesar’s death Antony saw him self as the true heir to his legacy and worked hard to make sure he stayed in power. Even though Caesar’s will gave the majority of his wealth to his grandnephew Octavian, Antony took a portion of it for him self along with claiming himself as the Caesarian faction leader. This created a rift in their relationship that would eventually boil over to war after Philippi. Antony led several legions at Philippi and his victory there helped him retain his power in the eastern Roman provinces after the battle.
Who was the first emperor of Rome?
Augustus Caesar, often referred to as the creator of the Roman Empire, was Rome’s first emperor, and arguably its greatest one. Although his relationship with each varied, he understood the importance of gaining the support of the military, the senate, and the people. He rose to power and maintained his power as a result of this ability. During his lengthy reign, he oversaw the transformation of the political and religious institutions, economy, administration, and army of the fragile Roman Republic into those of the Roman Empire (Mellor 6). In addition to a sense of humor, Augustus possessed intelligence, ruthlessness, and political savvy— traits which enabled him to craftily legitimize his autocratic rule under the forms of traditional republican law, and establish the legal, political, and cultural foundations for an empire that would persist for the next 1500 years.
Who were the Roman kings who helped lay down the foundation for Caesar?
Another group of predecessors to Caesar who helped lay down the foundation for him were the Seven Roman Kings. One of the Kings, Tarquinius Superbus, planned quite a few projects and reforms, including dividing people into tribes and classes, building the Servian Wall, and creating a temple for Jupiter. These actions could have easily inspired and sparked Caesar to create
Did Augustus recall his grandson from the East?
This being the case, if Gaius had not already been in Rome, it is likely, on hearing of the death of Herod, Augustus would recall his young grandson from the East to participate in the discussion of Herod’s successor. For Gaius was not alone in Syria, he had several “battle-experienced” generals with him, upon whom he could rely whilst he made the trip to Rome. This would be good experience
What was Marcus Aurelius credited with?
Aurelius was credited with ensuring a new era of continued stability while at the same time fighting the Germanic wars, restructuring economics and politics on a more local as opposed to governmental level and wrote a lot of books throughout his life.
Why is Marcus Aurelius called the philosopher?
He was known as “The philosopher” due to his intelligence and wise state of mind. He was a very peaceful empero. Continue Reading. Marcus Aurelius is generally regarded as the last of the “5 Good Emperors”.
How old was Marcus Aurelius Antoninus when he died?
He was 58 years old and had ruled for exactly nineteen years and ten days.
What was Marcus' role in the Parthian Empire?
Marcus was also important in destroying the Parthian Empire. Trajan’s wars from 115–117 had been the first major blow, then Marcus’s generals did the Parthians dirty in 169, and Septimius Severus’s wars in the early 200s were the final straw.
What plague did Lucius bring back to Rome?
As Lucius had his army march back to Rome, they brought a terrible plague (possible small pox) back with them. This plague laid Rome, Italy and many other urbanized areas low, possibly killing a quarter of the population of some of the more densely populated urban areas of the Roman Empire.
How did Antonius train Marcus?
Antonius saw to it that Marcus was trained by giving him various magistracies and governorships and then making him part of his privvy council, the consilium. However the way his the age of his reign played out, he proved to be less the philosopher king of Plato and proved to be a nearly ideal Roman emperor.
What is Aurelius's meditations?
His work “Meditations” is a classic and still widely read and deals with his personal reflections concerning self improvement. Although it was never intended to be published the wisdom of Aurelius in “Meditations” has transcended time with many truths still relevant today.
Where was Marcus Aurelius born?
Marcus Aurelius was born on 26 April 121, into a wealthy, prominent family, in Rome, Italy. He was extremely bright as a young boy. He was a dedicated student, tutored by many private educators. He was passionate about literature, music, Latin, and Greek.
What was Aurelius' role in the Senate?
In 140 CE, Aurelius became emissary or leader of the senate—a post he would hold twice in his life. As years passed, he was given more political errands and official powers. Thus, he slowly progressed into a sturdy source of backing and guidance for his adoptive father Antoninus.
Why did Aurelius travel back to Rome?
This forced Aurelius to travel back to Rome to regain control; however, he never had to confront Cassius as Cassius was killed by his own soldiers. Thus, he got back to traveling the eastern regions with his wife, re-establishing control in every city he set foot on.
How many children did Marcus Aurelius have?
The couple had 13 children in their marriage of three decades. Two of their children— Lucilla and Commodus— went on to become famous. From 170 to 180, Aurelius wrote ‘Meditations,’ a philosophical text. The book was first published in 1558 in Zurich, and the only remaining copy can be found in the Vatican library.
Where is the book of Marcus Aurelius?
The book was first published in 1558 in Zurich, and the only remaining copy can be found in the Vatican library. Marcus Aurelius passed away in Vindobona (Vienna) on 17 March 180, and his ashes were taken back to Rome. His son Commodus succeeded his father as the emperor.
What movie was Marcus Aurelius based on?
The 1964 film ‘The Fall of the Roman Empire’ and the 2000 film ‘Gladiator’ were based on Marcus Aurelius’ life and career. Quotes: Life, Happiness.
Who succeeded Hadrian?
His intellectual dedication was noticed by the-then Emperor Hadrian. After Hadrian’s former choice of heir passed away, he chose Titus Aurelius Antoninus to succeed him as the emperor. Hadrian also arranged for Antoninus to take young Aurelius under his wings at the age of 17.
1. He Was A Rich Boy
Marcus Aurelius was born into one of Rome’s richest families, but that doesn’t mean he had a charmed childhood. He lost his father when he was just three years old, never getting to know the man who gave him life. In a touching tribute, he’d later say he learned “modesty and manliness” by studying his deceased dad’s life.
3. He Had An Evil Stepgrandmother
Aurelius’s caretakers sent him to live with his grandfather, Marcus Annius Verus. After his isolated days with the nursemaids, Aurelius instantly took to his ol’ granpappy. He spoke highly of his grandfather for the rest of his life— but there was one part of this new life he absolutely hated.
6. Hadrian Made A Weird Choice
Soon after Hadrian recovered from his attack, he did something no one expected: He announced that his successor was going to be a dude named Lucius Ceionius Commodus. People were…absolutely horrified. See, our friend Lucius wasn’t exactly emperor material. He was old, sickly, and frail.
7. Hadrian Loved Him
If anyone thought Marcus Aurelius was a weirdo, Hadrian wasn’t one of them. The ailing emperor thought he was just the man for the job, but Marcus was still too young to become emperor. But, here’s the important part: Marcus Aurelius was engaged to marry old Commodus’s daughter.
8. His Father-In-Law Croaked
In 138 AD, the most obvious thing in the world happened: Lucius Ceionius Commodus fell ill and passed. That’s right: Hadrian was already on death’s door, and his heir still didn’t manage to outlive him. Pretty sure he got plenty of “I-told-you-sos” after that one. Instead, he made a guy named Antoninus Pius his heir.
9. He Swapped Fiancees
Hadrian really wanted Marcus Aurelius to become emperor one day, but it took some really messy dealing to get it done. Basically, after his first heir kicked the bucket, Hadrian made Antoninus Pius his heir, then had him adopt Marcus Aurelius as his son.
10. He Went From Nobody To Heir
Now that Marcus Aurelius was officially in line to become emperor, Hadrian decided he was pretty much done with this whole “living” thing.
Quick Facts
- Name at birth:Marcus Annius Verus
- Name as emperor:Caesar Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus
- Dates:April 26, 121 - March 17, 180
- Parents:Annius Verus and Domitia Lucilla;
- Name at birth:Marcus Annius Verus
- Name as emperor:Caesar Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Augustus
- Dates:April 26, 121 - March 17, 180
- Parents:Annius Verus and Domitia Lucilla;
Family History and Background
- Marcus Aurelius, originally Marcus Annius Verus, was the son of the Spanish Annius Verus, who had received patrician rank from Emperor Vespasian, and Domitia Calvilla or Lucilla. Marcus' father died when he was three months old, at which time his grandfather adopted him. Later, Titus Antoninus Pius adopted Marcus Aurelius at the age of 17 or 18 as part of an agreement he had …
Career
- The Augustan History says that it was when Marcus was adopted as heir that he was first called "Aurelius" instead of "Annius." Antoninus Pius made Marcus consul and caesar in A.D. 139. In 145, Aurelius married his sister by adoption, Faustina, daughter of Pius. After they had a daughter, he was granted tribunician power and imperiumoutside Rome. When Antoninus Pius died in 161, th…
Imperial Hotspots
- Syria
- Armenia (Marcus Aurelius took the name Armeniacus)
- Parthia (took the name Parthicus)
- Chatti (took the name Germanicus by 172 since the name appears in inscriptions then [Cassius Dio])
Death
- Marcus Aurelius died in March 180. Before his funeral, he had been declared a god. When his wife, Faustina, had died in 176, Marcus Aurelius asked the Senate to deify her and built her a temple. The gossipy Augustan Historysays that Faustina had not been a chaste wife and that it was considered a stain on Marcus Aurelius' reputation that he promoted her lovers. Marcus Aurelius' …
The Column of Marcus Aurelius
- The Column of Marcus Aurelius had a spiral staircase leading to a top from which one could view the Antonine funerary monuments in the Campus Martius. Marcus Aurelius' German and Sarmatian campaigns were shown in relief sculptures spiraling up the 100-Roman-foot column.
'The Meditations'
- Between 170 and 180, Marcus Aurelians wrote 12 books of generally pithy observations from what is considered a Stoic perspective while emperor, in Greek. These are known as his Meditations.
Source
- “Marcus Aurelius Antoninus - 1911 Encyclopedia Britannica - Bible Encyclopedia.” StudyLight.org, www.studylight.org/encyclopedias/bri/m/marcus-aurelius-antoninus.html.
Short Biography of Marcus Aurelius
Rise to The Throne in Rome
Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations
Some Powerful Excerpts from Meditations
Great Achievements of Marcus Aurelius
- Marcus Aurelius’ 19-year reign was greeted with some level of wars and diseases, but he still managed to achieve some successes. Here are three great achievements of Marcus Aurelius: