e time to write down his thoughts into a diary. This diary, now a published book, is called Meditations. This book, his only known writings, actually consists of 12 books written in Greek. The repeated points throughout Meditations are that a reasonable, moral life leads to peace and inner tranquillity; also, that is vital to obey the virtues present in life. Namely, these are wisdom, justice, fortitude, and moderation.Included in Aurelius book are all the philosophies he believes in, which generally match with those of the Stoics. His views on such topics as mans place in the universe, an outer force, the soul, death, truth, knowledge, and virtue are included in his works. According to Aurelius, the basic purpose of man in the universe is to listen to reason, and be in accordance with nature. Performing the duty that is assigned to a person in his life is also of great importance. It is evident that Aurelius believes this, because he accepted that God had meant for him to be an emperor, even when he himself would have preferred a completely different lifestyle. However, he accepted with dignity his lot in life, and tried his best to excel at it. A man should also show kindness to every person one encounters. This follows the basic concept of the Stoics, who stated that all men are brothers, so showing generosity is only in accordance with nature. Also, if a person shows ignorance, it is essential that an educated man does all possible to help show the less educated man the way to live according to nature and reason. This should not be done with contempt, but with patiance.False praise and the opinions of others should be ignored. Aurelius firmly believes that a person should not form his own opinion of himself based on others view of him. Looking inside oneself, and following reason and nature are the only true ways to know what kind of person one is. In Meditations, Aurelius writes, "I have often wondered how it is tha...
