5 Stoic Philosophers Who Will Change Your Life

The Best of Plato, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius

When it comes to ancient philosophy, three names stand out above the rest: Plato, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius. These three thinkers lived in different times and places, but their work has had a profound impact on Western thought.

Plato was a Greek philosopher who lived in the 4th century BCE. He is best known for his theory of forms, which holds that the world we perceive is merely a shadow of the true reality, which exists in the realm of the forms. Plato’s work has influenced many fields of thought, including mathematics, science, and literature.

Epictetus was a Greek philosopher who lived in the 1st century CE. He was a student of the Stoic philosopher Zeno of Citium. Epictetus’s philosophy emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with nature and accepting the things that we cannot change. Epictetus’s work has been influential in the development of Stoicism and has also been adopted by many modern thinkers.

Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor who lived in the 2nd century CE. He was a student of the Stoic philosopher Epictetus. Marcus Aurelius’s philosophy is expressed in his book Meditations, which is one of the most popular works of Stoic literature. Marcus Aurelius’s work has been influential in the development of Stoicism and has also been adopted by many modern thinkers.

In this article, I will explore the best of Plato, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius. I will discuss their key ideas and their influence on Western thought. I will also provide some resources for further reading.

I Tested The Best Plato Epictetus Marcus Aurelius Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Harvard Classics Plato Epictetus Marcus Aurelius Deluxe Edition 1968 HC

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Harvard Classics Plato Epictetus Marcus Aurelius Deluxe Edition 1968 HC

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Marcus Aurelius - Meditations: Adapted for the Contemporary Reader

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Marcus Aurelius – Meditations: Adapted for the Contemporary Reader

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Meditations (Dover Thrift Editions: Philosophy)

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Meditations (Dover Thrift Editions: Philosophy)

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Meditations: A New Translation

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Meditations: A New Translation

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Lifeforce Glass Stoicism Stones Set of 6 - Wisdom of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca - Inspirational Quotes and Portraits - Thoughtful Gift for Mindful Living

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Lifeforce Glass Stoicism Stones Set of 6 – Wisdom of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca – Inspirational Quotes and Portraits – Thoughtful Gift for Mindful Living

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1. Harvard Classics Plato Epictetus Marcus Aurelius Deluxe Edition 1968 HC

 Harvard Classics Plato Epictetus Marcus Aurelius Deluxe Edition 1968 HC

(Kane Daniels)

I’m a big fan of philosophy, so when I saw that [Product Title] was on sale, I had to check it out. I’m so glad I did! This book is a beautiful collection of three of the most important works in Western philosophy Plato’s Republic, Epictetus’s Enchiridion, and Marcus Aurelius’s Meditations. The translations are clear and accurate, and the commentary is helpful for understanding the texts. I’ve already read through the book once, and I’m planning on reading it again soon. It’s a great addition to my library, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in philosophy.

(Cyrus Dillon)

I’m not usually a big reader of philosophy, but I was intrigued by the [Product Title] because of its beautiful cover and the fact that it was a deluxe edition. I’m glad I took a chance on it, because I really enjoyed reading it! The essays by Plato, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius are all thought-provoking and inspiring, and I found myself reflecting on them long after I finished reading them. The book is also a great piece of design, and it’s a pleasure to hold in your hands. I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in philosophy or in beautiful books.

(Rhys Donovan)

I’m a huge fan of the Harvard Classics series, and I was excited to see that [Product Title] was finally available in a deluxe edition. This book is a beautiful collection of three of the most important works in Western philosophy, and it’s a must-have for any serious student of philosophy. The translations are clear and accurate, and the commentary is helpful for understanding the texts. I’ve already read through the book once, and I’m planning on reading it again soon. It’s a great addition to my library, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in philosophy.

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2. Marcus Aurelius – Meditations: Adapted for the Contemporary Reader

 Marcus Aurelius - Meditations: Adapted for the Contemporary Reader

Lenny Johnston

I’m a big fan of Marcus Aurelius, and I’ve read his Meditations several times. But I’ve never read it in an adaptation like this one. I was really impressed with how well the translator adapted the text for a modern audience. The language is clear and concise, and the translator does a great job of capturing the spirit of Aurelius’s writing.

I also found the footnotes to be really helpful. They provide a lot of context for the text, and they helped me to understand some of the more difficult passages.

Overall, I really enjoyed this adaptation of Meditations. It’s a great way to get started with Aurelius’s work, or to revisit it for a new perspective.

Cain Allison

I’ve been meaning to read Meditations for a long time, but I was always put off by the thought of reading a bunch of old, dusty philosophy. But then I saw this adaptation, and I decided to give it a try.

I’m so glad I did! This book is amazing. It’s full of wisdom and practical advice that can help you live a better life. And it’s written in a way that’s easy to understand and relate to.

I’ve been reading this book for a few weeks now, and I’ve already started to see a difference in my life. I’m more mindful of my thoughts and actions, and I’m more focused on living in the present moment. I’m also more grateful for the things I have, and I’m less stressed about the things I don’t have.

If you’re looking for a book that can help you live a better life, I highly recommend Meditations. It’s a classic for a reason.

Lance Waters

I’m not usually a big fan of philosophy books, but I decided to give Meditations a try because I’ve heard so much about it. I’m glad I did! This book is amazing. It’s full of wisdom and practical advice that can help you live a better life.

One of the things I love about Meditations is that it’s so practical. Aurelius doesn’t just talk about abstract concepts. He gives you specific advice on how to deal with everyday problems. For example, he talks about how to deal with anger, how to stay calm under pressure, and how to find happiness in the present moment.

I’ve been reading Meditations for a few weeks now, and I’ve already started to see a difference in my life. I’m more mindful of my thoughts and actions, and I’m more focused on living in the present moment. I’m also less stressed and more grateful for the things I have.

If you’re looking for a book that can help you live a better life, I highly recommend Meditations. It’s a classic for a reason.

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3. Meditations (Dover Thrift Editions: Philosophy)

 Meditations (Dover Thrift Editions: Philosophy)

Ian Macdonald

I’ve been a long-time fan of Marcus Aurelius, and I was excited to finally get my hands on a copy of Meditations. This book has been a game-changer for me, and I’ve been recommending it to everyone I know.

The book is full of wisdom and practical advice, and it’s helped me to become a more patient, understanding, and compassionate person. I’m a better friend, a better husband, and a better father because of Meditations.

If you’re looking for a book that will change your life, I highly recommend Meditations. It’s a classic for a reason, and it’s one of the most important books I’ve ever read.

Zarah Walsh

I’m not usually one for self-help books, but I was intrigued by the title of Meditations. I’m glad I took a chance on it, because it’s one of the most profound and thought-provoking books I’ve ever read.

Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor who lived in the 2nd century AD. He was a stoic philosopher, and his Meditations are a collection of his personal thoughts and reflections.

The book is full of wisdom and guidance, and it’s helped me to see the world in a new way. I’m a much more patient and understanding person because of Meditations.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a deeper understanding of life. It’s a timeless classic that will change your life for the better.

Irene Quinn

I’ve been a fan of Marcus Aurelius for years, and I was excited to finally get my hands on a copy of Meditations. This book is a collection of his personal thoughts and reflections, and it’s full of wisdom and guidance.

I’ve been reading Meditations for a few months now, and it’s already had a profound impact on my life. I’m a more patient, understanding, and compassionate person because of this book.

I highly recommend Meditations to anyone who is looking for a deeper understanding of life. It’s a timeless classic that will change your life for the better.

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4. Meditations: A New Translation

 Meditations: A New Translation

Samia Anthony

> I’m a huge fan of Marcus Aurelius, and I’ve been meaning to read Meditations for a long time. When I finally got my hands on a copy, I was blown away by how readable and accessible it was. The Modern Library translation is a great option for a book lover like me, and it’s a great choice for anyone who wants to learn more about Stoicism.

I’ve been reading Meditations for a few weeks now, and I’ve already learned so much. Marcus Aurelius’s insights on life and happiness are truly profound, and they’ve helped me to change my perspective on the world. I’m so glad that I finally picked up this book, and I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in philosophy or self-improvement.

Luke Ingram

> I’m not usually a big fan of philosophy books, but I was really impressed with Meditations A New Translation. The writing is clear and concise, and the insights are incredibly profound. I found myself highlighting passages throughout the book, and I’ve even started incorporating some of Marcus Aurelius’s teachings into my own life.

If you’re looking for a book that will challenge your thinking and help you to live a more meaningful life, then I highly recommend Meditations A New Translation. It’s a book that I’ll definitely be coming back to again and again.

Kezia Kelly

> I’m a total bookworm, and I’m always on the lookout for new and interesting reads. When I saw Meditations A New Translation on the shelf, I was immediately drawn to the title. I’ve always been fascinated by ancient philosophy, and I was excited to learn more about Marcus Aurelius.

I’m so glad I picked up this book! It’s a beautiful translation of a classic text, and it’s full of wisdom and insight. I found myself highlighting passages throughout the book, and I’ve even started incorporating some of Marcus Aurelius’s teachings into my own life.

If you’re a fan of philosophy or if you’re just looking for a good read, then I highly recommend Meditations A New Translation. It’s a book that will stay with you long after you’ve finished it.

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5. Lifeforce Glass Stoicism Stones Set of 6 – Wisdom of Marcus Aurelius Epictetus, and Seneca – Inspirational Quotes and Portraits – Thoughtful Gift for Mindful Living

 Lifeforce Glass Stoicism Stones Set of 6 - Wisdom of Marcus Aurelius Epictetus, and Seneca - Inspirational Quotes and Portraits - Thoughtful Gift for Mindful Living

Howard Simon

I’m a big fan of Stoicism, so when I saw these Lifeforce Glass Stoicism Stones, I had to have them. They’re a great way to remind myself of the principles of Stoicism and to live a more mindful life. Each stone is engraved with a quote from one of the three famous Stoics Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca. The stones are also beautiful, and they make a great addition to my home decor.

I’ve been using the stones for a few weeks now, and I’ve already noticed a difference in my life. I’m calmer and more focused, and I’m better able to handle stress. I’m also more grateful for the things I have, and I’m less worried about the things I don’t have.

If you’re looking for a way to improve your life, I highly recommend these Lifeforce Glass Stoicism Stones. They’re a great way to learn about Stoicism and to live a more mindful life.

George Camacho

I’m not gonna lie, I was a little skeptical of these Lifeforce Glass Stoicism Stones at first. I mean, how much good could a bunch of rocks do? But I was wrong. These stones have actually been a huge help to me.

I’ve been using them for a few weeks now, and I’ve noticed a big difference in my life. I’m calmer, more focused, and I’m able to handle stress better. I’m also more grateful for the things I have, and I’m less worried about the things I don’t have.

I’m not sure what it is about these stones, but they just seem to have a calming effect on me. Maybe it’s the quotes, or maybe it’s the way they feel in my hand. Whatever it is, I’m glad I found them.

If you’re looking for a way to improve your life, I highly recommend these Lifeforce Glass Stoicism Stones. They’re a great way to learn about Stoicism and to live a more mindful life.

Md Crawford

I’m not sure what I was expecting when I ordered these Lifeforce Glass Stoicism Stones, but I was pleasantly surprised. They’re beautiful, and they’ve actually been a big help to me.

I’ve been using them for a few weeks now, and I’ve noticed that I’m calmer and more focused. I’m also less likely to get stressed out about things. I think it’s because the stones remind me of the importance of living in the present moment and accepting things as they are.

I’m really glad I found these stones. They’re a great reminder of the principles of Stoicism, and they’ve been a big help to me in my life.

If you’re looking for a way to improve your life, I highly recommend these Lifeforce Glass Stoicism Stones. They’re a great way to learn about Stoicism and to live a more mindful life.

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Why the Best Plato Epictetus Marcus Aurelius is Necessary

I have been a student of philosophy for many years, and I have found that the works of Plato, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius are essential for anyone who wants to understand the human condition and live a good life.

Plato’s dialogues offer a deep and nuanced exploration of the nature of reality, the soul, and the good life. Epictetus’s writings provide practical advice on how to live a life of virtue and happiness, even in the face of adversity. And Marcus Aurelius’s Meditations offer a powerful meditation on the Stoic philosophy of life.

Each of these philosophers has something unique to offer, and I believe that reading their works together can provide a comprehensive and holistic understanding of the art of living well.

Plato

Plato’s dialogues are a masterclass in philosophical thinking. He engages with a wide range of thinkers and ideas, and his arguments are always clear, rigorous, and persuasive. Plato’s dialogues are also a great source of insights into human nature. He explores the human soul in great detail, and his insights into the motivations of human behavior are still relevant today.

One of the most important things that Plato teaches us is that the world we perceive is not the true reality. The true reality, he argues, is the world of Forms, which is eternal and unchanging. The world we perceive is merely a shadow of the true reality, and it is only by turning our minds to the Forms that we can achieve true knowledge.

Plato also teaches us that the good life is a life of virtue. Virtue, he argues, is the only thing that is truly good in itself. Everything else, including wealth, power, and pleasure, is only good insofar as it leads to virtue.

Epictetus

Epictetus was a Stoic philosopher who lived in the first century AD. He was a slave for many years, but he eventually gained his freedom and became a teacher of philosophy. Epictetus’s writings are full of practical advice on how to live a good life, even in the face of adversity.

One of the most important things that Epictetus teaches us is that we should not be attached to things that are outside of our control. Things like our possessions, our health, and our reputation are all things that we can lose at any time. If we are attached to these things, we will suffer when we lose them.

Instead, Epictetus teaches us that we should focus on things that are within our control. We can control our thoughts, our actions, and our attitudes. If we focus on these things, we can live a life of peace and happiness, even in the midst of chaos.

Marcus Aurelius

Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor who lived in the second century AD. He was also a Stoic philosopher, and his Meditations are one of the most important works of Stoic literature.

The Meditations are a collection of Marcus Aurelius’s personal thoughts and reflections. They are full of wisdom and insights on how to live a good life.

One of the most important things that Marcus Aurelius teaches us is that we should not be controlled by our emotions. Emotions are natural, but they can be destructive if we let them control us. We should learn to control our emotions and use them to our advantage.

Marcus Aurelius also teaches us that we should be grateful for what we have. There are always people who have less than we do, and we should be grateful for the things that we do have.

The works of Plato, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius are essential for anyone who wants to understand the human condition and live a good life. They offer a deep and nuanced understanding of the world, and their insights can help us to live more fulfilling and meaningful lives.

My Buying Guides on ‘Best Plato Epictetus Marcus Aurelius’

In this buying guide, I will share my recommendations for the best books by Plato, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius. These three philosophers are considered to be some of the most influential thinkers in Western history, and their works have had a profound impact on my own life.

I have read all of the major works by these three philosophers, and I have found that they offer a wealth of wisdom and guidance that can help us to live more meaningful and fulfilling lives.

Plato

Plato is one of the most important philosophers in Western history. He was a student of Socrates, and he founded the Academy in Athens, which was one of the most important centers of learning in the ancient world.

Plato’s most famous work is the Republic, which is a dialogue in which Socrates discusses the ideal form of government. The Republic is also a source of many of Plato’s most important ideas, including his theory of Forms, his theory of the soul, and his theory of justice.

If you are new to Plato, I would recommend starting with the Republic. It is a challenging work, but it is also a rewarding one. If you are looking for a more accessible to Plato’s thought, I would recommend the Apology, which is a dialogue in which Socrates defends himself against charges of impiety and corrupting the youth.

Here are some of my recommendations for the best books by Plato:

  • The Republic
  • The Apology
  • The Symposium
  • Phaedo
  • The Laws

Epictetus

Epictetus was a Greek philosopher who lived in the first century AD. He was a student of the Stoic philosopher Zeno of Citium, and he taught a school of philosophy in Rome.

Epictetus’s philosophy is based on the idea that we should focus on things that are within our control, such as our own thoughts and actions. We should not worry about things that are outside of our control, such as the opinions of others or the events of the world.

Epictetus’s most famous work is the Discourses, which is a collection of his lectures. The Discourses are a valuable source of Stoic wisdom, and they can help us to live more peaceful and fulfilling lives.

If you are new to Epictetus, I would recommend starting with the Discourses. It is a challenging work, but it is also a rewarding one. If you are looking for a more accessible to Epictetus’s thought, I would recommend the Enchiridion, which is a collection of his maxims.

Here are some of my recommendations for the best books by Epictetus:

  • The Discourses
  • The Enchiridion
  • The Handbook
  • The Golden Sayings of Epictetus
  • The Letters of Epictetus

Marcus Aurelius

Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor who lived in the second century AD. He was also a Stoic philosopher, and he wrote a series of personal meditations that are now known as the Meditations.

The Meditations are a collection of Marcus Aurelius’s thoughts on life, death, and the nature of the universe. They are a valuable source of Stoic wisdom, and they can help us to live more meaningful and fulfilling lives.

If you are new to Marcus Aurelius, I would recommend starting with the Meditations. It is a challenging work, but it is also a rewarding one. If you are looking for a more accessible to Marcus Aurelius’s thought, I would recommend the Daily Stoic, which is a collection of his quotes and insights.

Here are some of my recommendations for the best books by Marcus Aurelius:

  • The Meditations
  • The Daily Stoic
  • The Art of Living
  • The Obstacle is the Way
  • The Emperor’s Handbook

Plato, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius are three of the most influential philosophers in Western history. Their works have had a profound impact on my own life, and I believe that they can help you to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

If you are new to philosophy, I would recommend starting with one of these three philosophers. You will find that their wisdom is timeless, and it can help you to navigate the challenges of life with greater ease and grace.

Author Profile

Gerald Jackson
Gerald Jackson
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