We all seek answers, and we always have! The 2300-year-old philosophy of stoicism deliberates upon and answers some of the most burning questions about human lives: How do I live correctly? What is virtue? What is happiness? How to face adversity in life? And, what is a life well-lived?
The book presents a riveting tale of the philosophy of stoicism. We will take you to the bustling streets of ancient Greece and Rome, where philosophers asked these questions centuries ago.
Stoic philosophy in antiquity and beyond postulates virtue as the highest form of good in life. But how to achieve virtue? Zeno, the founding father of stoicism, categorises virtue into four essential qualities - courage, temperance (or self-restraint & moderation), justice, and wisdom. The book explores these four key virtues of stoic philosophy and shows the real-life application of them in the lives of famous stoic philosophers.
The pursuit of self-improvement is a constant idea in stoicism. Taking a cue from the lives of some of the philosophers like Zeno, Aurelius, Clenthes, Cicero, etc. you will begin to understand the journey of stoic philosophers and see how an individual can achieve the utmost form of a virtuous and good life, as per stoicism. The willingness of stoic philosophers to embrace adversity and beat the anxieties of everyday life is relevant today, more than ever!
This is not about vain philosophical ideas. It’s about real actions you can take to transform your life!
Let us start with where it all begins, out of a pre-destined shipwreck!
Summary
The book gives an insight into the classical history and lives of stoic thinkers and philosophers. The real-life stories and examples set by philosophers make it a fascinating read for people looking for answers.
The contemporary reader can learn a lot by seeing how these philosophers practised the core stoic virtues of courage, wisdom, moderation, and justice- the principles eternally relevant to leading a virtuous life!
Zeno’s courage in the face of adversity is the beginning of stoicism!
Stoic philosophy starts with a modest beginning on the island of Cyprus in the 4th century BCE. It begins with Zeno of Citium, who is believed to be the founder of stoicism. Zeno, a wealthy merchant, is living a comfortable life. The turning point of his life is a shipwreck that devastates his valuable cargo (a much sought-after purple dye) and leaves him with nothing. But Zeno does not succumb to self-pity due to adversity. He showcases exemplary courage and...
Cleanthes- A hard worker at night, a philosopher during the day!
Cleanthes, an ardent student of Zeno, was born in 330 BCE and was a testament to stoic philosophy throughout his life. Born into poverty, Cleanthes leads a tough life of manual labour. He was called Phreantles, a word which means ‘water boy’ in Greek, a nickname he got as he delivered water from the well to the city’s gardens.After meeting his teacher and guide Zeno at the age of 50 years, Cleanthes starts to study philosophy during the day and...
Cato the Younger - a worthy stoic!
It’s not that stoic philosophy did not see a popular face for the next 100 years. The likes of Diogenes and Antipater worked on the principles, improved them & codified them in writing. However, Cato is worthy of mention and his life is discussed in this key concept. Cato’s life is a testament to living the principles of stoic philosophy practically. Marcus Porcius Cato Uticensis was born in 95 BCE in ancient Rome, and lived by the true principles of...
Cicero fails to practise what he preaches!
Born in 106 BCE Rome, Cicero achieved recognition due to his book Stoic Paradoxes. It is a monumental book on the philosophy of stoicism. It is a thought-provoking essay on the over-emphasis of virtue by stoics at the cost of luxury or money. The book immortalises the essential lessons and discussions of stoicism.Cicero wrote a major work on stoic philosophy. But he failed to adhere to the central tenets of stoicism. Rising quickly to the rank of consul and commander...
Marcus Aurelius- the first philosopher king!
Marcus Aurelius, the first philosopher king, bravely found the power within himself to stay true to stoic philosophy. Our first philosopher king is a classic example of the possibility of achieving moral greatness through stoicism! His adherence to key stoic principles of temperance and wisdom elevates his status to a great king who practises what he preaches. Born into a well-respected family in ancient Rome, Marcus tasted power at the young age of 17 years. The heirless Emperor Hadrian selects...
Seneca’s blood lust!
Next up, is the most famous of the lot - the stoic philosopher Seneca. Lucius Annaeus Seneca was born in 4 BCE in Rome and gained recognition due to his book Moral Letters. The book contains a series of 124 philosophical letters that touch upon the central themes of stoic philosophy. No matter the literary credentials, Seneca fails to practise most stoic principles in real life and lives a morally questionable life. Here's his story:Stoics believe that it is our...
Portia Cato: A devout woman stoic!
A woman’s role in history is more or less unrecorded, but many fought valiantly against tyrannies and wars, just like their male counterparts. Naming a woman a stoic philosopher is important for the reader who might be curious about the place of women in such exciting times.Portia Cato, a beautiful and brave woman, was the daughter of Cato the Younger. She married Brutus, a man famous for plotting the assassination of Julius Caesar. Interestingly, Portia was curious to know more...
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About the Author
Author, media strategist, and bookstore owner Ryan Holiday hails from the United States. He is also the host of the podcast called Daily Stoic. The Obstacle is the Way, Ego is the Enemy, and Stillness is the Key are some of his other books.
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