Marcus Aurelius's Meditations is a personal journal of a Roman emperor's innermost thoughts. Written as an exercise in self-improvement, this study of Stoic values has grown in importance since Aurelius's death.
Marcus Aurelius (121-180 CE) was born into a noble Roman family, his father being Emperor Hadrian's nephew. Marcus died in March 180 CE and was succeeded by his son Commodus, who undid many of his father's achievements.