Meditations by Marcus Aurelius offers profound insights into Stoic philosophy, emphasizing gratitude, self-reflection, and the nature of existence. This collection of discussion questions encourages readers to explore themes such as the importance of gratitude, the nature of time, and the pursuit of virtue. Ideal for students and book clubs, these questions facilitate deep conversations about morality, leadership, and personal growth. Engage with Aurelius's thoughts on fame, self-respect, and the interconnectedness of humanity, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in philosophical discussions.

Key Points

  • Explores themes of gratitude and self-reflection in Stoic philosophy.
  • Encourages discussions on the nature of time and existence.
  • Includes questions on leadership and moral integrity.
  • Facilitates deep conversations for students and book clubs.
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Great Books Discussion Questions
Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
1. Aurelius mentions several times in the text that he is grateful for his upbringing, family, the gods
and friends. Why does he believe that gratitude is important in life? Do you agree with him;
why or why not?
2. Aurelius writes in Book One: “I received the idea of a polity in which there is the same law for
all, a polity administered with regard to equal rights and equal freedom of speech, and the idea
of a kingly government which respects most of all the freedom of the governed. . . .” Does this
remark remind you of the “Bill of Rights” in the Constitution? If so, how? How does this
quotation relate to the current political environment?
3. In Book Two, Marcus writes: “Since it is possible that thou mayest depart from life this very
moment, regulate every act and thought accordingly.” Do you believe this is good advice? Why
or why not? Hoe can we reconcile this advice with the fact that Aurelius wrote much of the
Meditations during a war that he fought (and led) against Rome’s enemies?
4. Aurelius posed several questions about the nature of time in the Meditations. In Book Two he
writes: “For the present is the same to all, though that which perishes is not the same; and so
that which is lost appears to be a mere moment. For a man cannot lose either the past or the
future: for what a man has not, how can anyone take this from him”? Does this seem to be
good advice? Why or why not? How is this similar to the teachings of other philosophers or
religious leaders?
5. In Book Three, Aurelius writes: “Never value anything as profitable to thyself which shall compel
thee to break thy promise, to lose thy self-respect, to hate any man, to suspect, to curse, to act
the hypocrite, to desire anything which needs walls and curtains; for he who has preferred to
everything his own intelligence and daemon and the worship of its excellence, acts no tragic
part, does not groan, will not need either solitude or much company; and what is chief of all, he
will live without either pursuing or flying from death; but whether for a longer or a shorter time
he shall have the soul inclosed in the body, he cares not at all: for even if he must depart
immediately, he will go as readily as if he were going to do anything else which can be done with
decency and order; taking care of this only all through life, that his thoughts turn not away from
anything which belongs to an intelligent animal and a member of a civil community.” These are
noble sentiments; do you believe it is possible to live them? Why or why not? Does it seem
possible that the leader of an Empire can live according to these dictates? Why or why not?
6. Aurelius writes about the desire for praise and glory in Book Four: “But perhaps the desire of the
thing called fame will torment thee.—See how soon everything is forgotten, and look at the
chaos of infinite time on each side of the present, and the emptiness of applause, and the
changeableness and want of judgment in those who pretend to give praise, and the narrowness
of the space within which it is circumscribed, and be quiet at last.” How is this sentiment
reconciled with the seeming need today for people to seek “fifteen minutes of fame”? What
does this say for a person who is constantly in need of attention and praise?
7. In Book Four, Aurelius writes: “He is an abscess on the universe who withdraws and separates
himself from the reason of our common nature through being displeased with the things which
happen, for the same nature produces this, and has produced thee too: he is a piece rent
asunder from the state, who tears his own soul from that of reasonable animals, which is one.”
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What doe he mean by this quote? Is this quotation applicable to the present time? What does
this say about the need for men to live together socially?
8. In Book Five, Marcus writes: “As a horse when he has run, a dog when he has tracked the game,
a bee when it has made the honey, so a man when he has done a good act, does not call out for
others to come and see, but he goes on to another act, as a vine goes on to produce again the
grapes in season.” What does this quotation say about braggarts? How should a person act
after doing a good deed? Do you agree with this sentiment; why or why not?
9. Also, in Book Five, he writes: “It is a shame then that ignorance and conceit should be stronger
than wisdom.” How does this apply in the current day? Do you agree with this sentiment; why
or why not?
10. In Book Six, he writes: “The best way of avenging thyself is to not become like the wrong doer.”
Is this good advice? If so, why is it so hard to undertake in practice?
11. In Book Six he writes: “But he is injured who abides in his error and ignorance.” What does he
men by this? How is someone injured who “abides in error and ignorance”?
12. In Book Seven, Aurelius writes: “When thou hast done a good act and another has received it,
why dost thou look for a third thing besides these, as fools do, either to have the reputation of
having done a good act or to obtain a return?” Does this seem to be good advice? Why do
people look to be rewarded for a good deed? Isn’t the deed good enough in itself? Do you
think people practice this advice; why or why not?
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FAQs

What are the main themes discussed in Meditations by Marcus Aurelius?
Meditations primarily explores themes of Stoicism, including the importance of gratitude, self-discipline, and the acceptance of fate. Aurelius emphasizes the significance of living in accordance with nature and maintaining one's integrity in the face of adversity. The text also delves into the transient nature of life, urging readers to focus on the present moment and act with virtue. Through personal reflections, Aurelius illustrates how these principles can guide individuals in their daily lives.
How does Marcus Aurelius view the concept of fame in his Meditations?
In Meditations, Marcus Aurelius expresses skepticism about the pursuit of fame and external validation. He argues that the desire for applause is fleeting and ultimately unfulfilling, as it is subject to the whims of public opinion. Aurelius encourages readers to focus on their own actions and virtues rather than seeking recognition from others. This perspective highlights the Stoic belief that true fulfillment comes from within, rather than from external accolades.
What advice does Marcus Aurelius give regarding the nature of time?
Aurelius advises readers to recognize the impermanence of life and to live each moment fully. He reflects on the idea that the present is all we truly possess, as the past is gone and the future is uncertain. This understanding encourages individuals to prioritize meaningful actions and thoughts, aligning their lives with their values. Aurelius's insights on time serve as a reminder to appreciate the present and to act with purpose.
What does Marcus Aurelius mean by living in accordance with nature?
Living in accordance with nature, as discussed by Marcus Aurelius, refers to aligning one's actions and thoughts with the rational order of the universe. He emphasizes the importance of accepting what cannot be changed and focusing on one's own responses to external events. This Stoic principle encourages individuals to cultivate inner peace and resilience, recognizing that they are part of a larger whole. By embracing this mindset, one can navigate life's challenges with grace and integrity.
How does Meditations address the relationship between individuals and society?
In Meditations, Marcus Aurelius highlights the interconnectedness of individuals within society, emphasizing the importance of community and mutual respect. He argues that withdrawing from societal responsibilities harms both the individual and the collective. Aurelius encourages readers to contribute positively to their communities and to act with compassion towards others. This perspective underscores the Stoic belief that personal well-being is intertwined with the well-being of society as a whole.

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