Literature, Culture, Spread of Culture

The Dichotomy of Control: How Epictetus’ Teachings Influenced Roman Resilience

Born around AD 55 in Hierapolis, Phrygia, Epictetus rose from slavery to become a prominent Stoic philosopher. His teachings, marked by a religious tone, resonated strongly with early Christian thinkers. Despite facing expulsion from Rome by Emperor Domitian, Epictetus’ influence endured through his pupil Arrian’s works, the Discourses and Encheiridion.

Emperors, Empire, History, Notables

Augustus: Architect of Empire – From Republic to Pax Romana

Augustus, born Octavian, transformed Rome from a republic to an empire and ushered in an era of unprecedented peace and prosperity known as the Pax Romana. As the first Roman emperor, he consolidated power through political maneuvering and military victories, expanding Rome’s territory to encompass the Mediterranean world. Augustus instituted sweeping reforms that stabilized the empire’s governance and economy, leaving an indelible mark on Roman society and culture that would endure for centuries.

Culture

Stoicism and the Roman Concept of Virtue: Wisdom, Courage, Justice, and Temperance

Stoicism, an ancient Greek philosophy, emerged in Athens in the early 3rd century BCE, founded by Zeno of Citium. It emphasizes self-control and resilience as means to navigate life’s challenges. The philosophy advocates for living in harmony with nature and reason, considering virtue the highest good. As Stoicism permeated Roman culture, it significantly influenced their ethical framework.

Emperors, Notables, Politics

Marcus Aurelius: The Philosopher Emperor Who Stunned the World with His Wisdom

Marcus Aurelius: The Philosopher Emperor and His Stoic Legacy is a captivating exploration of one of history’s most remarkable figures. As a Roman emperor and a Stoic philosopher, Marcus Aurelius embodies the intersection of power and wisdom. His reign from 161 to 180 CE was not only marked by military conflicts but also by an unwavering commitment to virtue and rationality.

Culture, Literature, Society

The Rise of Stoicism in Rome: How Greek Philosophy Shaped Roman Thought

Stoicism is a philosophical school founded by Zeno of Citium around 300 BCE in ancient Greece. Its main principles emphasized living in harmony with nature, using reason, and practicing virtue as paths to achieving eudaimonia, or human flourishing. These ideas became popular in Roman culture, influencing the thoughts and actions of important thinkers throughout the empire.