Introduction to Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor, wrote meditations that have become some of the most frequently read writings, alongside the Bible and the Koran. These writings were never intended for publication and were only meant for his personal reflection. Despite being written over 1800 years ago, his meditations remain a bestseller, translated into numerous languages worldwide.
A Philosopher King
Marcus Aurelius ruled during a time of crises and disasters, including the Marcomannic Wars, economic problems, social tensions, and the spread of the Antonine plague. He was a great fan of the Stoic school of philosophy, which emphasized reason, self-control, and inner strength. One of the basic principles of Marcus Aurelius was equalism, which guided his thoughts on good governance.
Good Governance
The question of what constitutes good governance was of great importance to Marcus Aurelius. He believed that a good ruler should be guided by the cardinal virtues of antiquity, including wisdom, justice, prudence, and moderation. The concept of "orientation towards the common good" was also crucial, where a ruler acts in a way that benefits the entire community. This is what distinguishes a good ruler from a bad one, according to the Greek philosopher Aristotle.
A Role Model?
Marcus Aurelius would likely have considered Donald Trump as "not a good leader and certainly not a role model." However, it is essential to remember that Marcus Aurelius was a product of his time, growing up in the social structures of antiquity. He did not question the existence of slavery, and women did not have the same rights as men during his reign.
Virtues and Leadership
Despite his limitations, Marcus Aurelius was extensively involved in court cases, trying to determine just judgments and putting the interests of the state first. He also built the Porta Nigra in Trier, a famous landmark, as part of the city wall to protect its citizens. His modest lifestyle and willingness to auction off imperial budgets when the state was in financial crisis demonstrate his commitment to the common good.
The Meaning of Life
Marcus Aurelius spent a lot of time thinking about the meaning of life, which is probably why many young people are interested in him and his writings today. His meditations are a small treasury that contains something to tackle almost every situation in life. They are not meant to be read from front to back but rather to find inspiration and reflection.
Contemporary Relevance
The exhibition in Trier builds on the contemporary interest in Marcus Aurelius and the topics that occupied him. It aims to inspire visitors from all over the world to reflect on themselves, society, and what an ancient Roman emperor still has to say today. By exploring the philosophical and political questions that Marcus Aurelius posed, individuals can arise to create a better society as a whole.
