Meditations (A Penguin Classics Hardcover)

This is a review for the hardcopy Penguin Classics translated by Martin Hammond. Please note that many of the reviews seem to be for a kindle version that is a different translation.Such a joy to read. Since Marcus Aurelius was writing for himself and only himself, there is an honesty and intimacy in the words -- as if his nobler self were writing reminders knowing he would need them during his weaker moments (including, literally, when he didn't feel like getting up in the morning).Some of the reviews here criticize the translation but I've really enjoyed it -- it is clear, unpretentious and unadorned, well suited to the philosophy it conveys -- and because the language is contemporary it sounds, to my ears, almost timeless so that, in its best moments, it sounds like words of wisdom for any age and not merely words reflecting the concerns of a man who lived 1900 years ago.The book itself is also attractive -- compact and sturdy with a pleasant font. The print, however, is small (probably around an 8 pt font).

To think that the book is the personal thoughts of a man who was the emperor of one of the greatest civilizations that ever prowled the earth was a personal conviction that every human should pen their thoughts to the next generation of their family even if the book does not get published.In the first book, Aurelius reflected on the teachings he received from his mentors and the importance of remaining true to oneself. He emphasized the transient nature of life and asked readers to embrace stoicism, a philosophy that advocates for self-discipline, rationality, and acceptance of external events beyond one’s control.The other books followed the same theme of connecting to oneself and focusing on the daily tasks ahead. To make an impact on earth as a human should and not to avoid the difficulties of the present moment.What caught my eye was the knowledge that the universe is a being and we are part of the macro mechanism of its ever-churning machine. With recent technology, scientists have been able to create images of the connection of galaxies that are wired together like the neurons firing in the brain of a human. The similarities were eerie when I saw the images placed side by side. However, this man, possibly in a tent on a campaign also had this knowledge centuries ago. This only means that many more concepts might either be lost or are just being rediscovered from recent studies.Aurelius advises readers to detach themselves from their desires and aversions, embracing the present moment and accepting whatever comes their way with equanimity. He often contemplated the insignificance of material wealth, the transitory nature of fame, and the inevitability of death. To think that at some point he mentioned that he should stop making these scribbles because he might never find the time to review the writings.

The author, editor, translator is great but his notes bring Marcus Aurelius alive. You gain information about him, his time of living, and his background in Stoicism. It's great and a great read.

While not particularly structure and somewhat repetitive, it is understandable given it is a personal reflection.Reading this after the Gita, is unique as the subject is very similar. Just one from the perspective of "God" to his disciple, the other of a rational man believing in the very essence of the Natural Law (which for Hindus, is the same as God).

Just picked up my copy. Having no point of reference to work off, I opted for this one.Just an FYI, this copy has a lot of jibber-jabber. The actual 12 books of Meditations, runs from page 3 to 173. The remaining 153 pages are notes, explanations, definitions....jibber-jabber. Not fluff, just not what I will be utilizing with this book.Otherwise, I think this book will be as foxed as my copy of The Havamal.

I'm very satisfied with this edition of the Meditations. Convenient little pocket-sized hardcover, with the timeless Stoic wisdom of the Good Emperor contained within. A great little book to read and re-read to remind ourselves of what's important and what's under our control. I highly recommend it.

I have several translations and find this to be one of the best. The notes and index are a great help and the size makes it easy to travel with. Beautiful cover too!

I’ve had this book for about 5 years now. I remember, the first time reading it, still a teenager, many of the messages flew over my head. And yet I still found it to be an incredible piece of wisdom.5 years later, I’ve reread it 5 times, roughly once per year. Each re-read, I’ve found something new.The Meditations’ relevance nearly 2000 years later is a testament to the fact that human beings always have been, and always will be, beautifully flawed.

Very nice cover, on the small side, pocket book size

No esperaba menos de las ediciones de ésta colección. Muy bonita y practica.

Perfect

...y la edición bellísima.

I've been reading this wonderful book a little at a time, for several months now, and finally finished it tonight. I'll begin at the beginning again tomorrow, and will continue to read the private Meditations of the Roman Emperor, Marcus Aurelius, as it resonates with me so completely. I already try to live this way myself, but I still gained some insights.The thing I love most about the books (there are 12), is that they weren't written from the ego, as they weren't meant for publication. These are Marcus Aurelius' private thoughts on how to be the best man he could be. How to live with virtue, to always do the right thing, and tell the truth, even if it brings criticism.It's how I try to live my life, and it's helped me to be less judgemental of those who don't think that way, or behave that way. A couple of examples...'Fifth. You are not even sure that they are doing wrong. Many ​things are done as part of a larger plan, and generally one needs to know a great deal before one can pronounce with certainty on another’s actions.''Seventh. It is not their actions which trouble us – because ​these lie in their own directing minds – but our judgements of them. Well, remove these judgements, make up your mind to dismiss your assessment of some supposed outrage, and your anger is gone. And how to remove them? By reflecting that no moral harm is caused you.'And so on... it's the wisdom of the Buddha, Christ, and other great teachers, which Aurelius has reflected upon and directed towards himself, and his own life.The Buddha grew up in a Palace, but he didn't let that stand in his way to seeking Enlightenment, and God. Marcus Aurelius was afraid of changing once he was made Emperor, and moved into the palace, but he reminds himself...'...where life can be lived, so can a good life; and life can be lived in a palace; therefore a good life can be lived in a palace.'So many wonderful thoughts on living a virtuous life. And, my belief is that, without virtue, there can be no happiness, so, this book can help us to get on the path of true happiness, if we're not already there; and to encourage us to stay on it, if we are.