Meditations is a series of personal writings by Marcus Aurelius, Roman Emperor from 161 to 180 AD. He recorded his private notes and contemplations as well as the ideas on Stoic philosophy. It is unlikely that Marcus Aurelius ever intended the writings to be published. These writings take the form of quotations varying in length from one sentence to long paragraphs. Marcus Aurelius wrote the 12 books of the Meditations in Koine Greek as a source for his own guidance and self-improvement.

A list of famous people who have embraced or admired the philosophy starts from presidents and ends with professional athletes and musicians. The 42nd president of the United States Bill Clinton described Meditations as one of the most influential texts of his life after the Bible. Tim Ferriss -- The author, podcast host and angel investor, has been one of the best known and strongest proponents of Stoicism.

The present text is translated by George Long. An English classical scholar, one of the founders (1830), and for twenty years an officer, of the Royal Geographical Society. An active member of the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, for which he edited the quarterly Journal of Education (1831-1835) as well as many of its text-books. The editor of the Penny Cyclopaedia and of Knight's Political Dictionary. Also, a member of the Society for Central Education instituted in London in 1837.

This book is re-edited and enhanced with hand-drawn illustrations by R. Bigfield to make the experience of reading these ancient texts more enjoyable and pleasant for a contemporary reader.