What Is Stoicism?

Discover the Ancient Wisdom of Stoicism: A Timeless Guide to the Good Life

Unearth the private diaries of Rome’s greatest emperors, the personal letters of renowned playwrights, and the lectures of influential teachers. Against all odds, these remarkable documents have survived for over two millennia, preserving some of the world's greatest wisdom. Together, they form the foundation of Stoicism—an ancient philosophy that once dominated Western thought, embraced by both the wealthy and the struggling in their quest for the Good Life.

Stoicism, often misunderstood or overlooked, is more than mere "emotionlessness." For those unfamiliar with it, Stoicism might seem like a dry, academic concept. However, it is a vibrant, action-oriented philosophy that offers practical tools for self-mastery, perseverance, and wisdom, making it incredibly relevant to daily life.

The term “Stoic” has been unfairly diminished in the English language. In truth, Stoicism is a profound guide for living a great life, not just an abstract academic discipline. This philosophy has been revered by many of history’s great minds, including George Washington, Walt Whitman, Frederick the Great, Eugène Delacroix, Adam Smith, Immanuel Kant, Thomas Jefferson, Matthew Arnold, Ambrose Bierce, Theodore Roosevelt, William Alexander Percy, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. Each of these individuals studied, quoted, or admired the Stoics for their profound insights.

The ancient Stoics themselves were exceptional figures: Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor; Epictetus, a former slave who became an influential lecturer and friend of Emperor Hadrian; and Seneca, a famous playwright and political adviser. Their teachings, preserved in daily email meditations, continue to inspire and guide us today.

What did these great individuals find in Stoicism? They discovered a wealth of strength, wisdom, and resilience, essential for navigating life’s challenges. Explore the enduring power of Stoicism and unlock its potential to transform your life.

Imagine accessing the private diaries of Rome’s greatest emperors, the intimate letters of its finest playwrights, and the transformative lectures of influential teachers. Remarkably, these invaluable documents have endured for over two millennia, offering profound insights that form the bedrock of Stoicism—an ancient philosophy once celebrated across the Western world. Practiced by both the elite and the common folk, Stoicism guided individuals in their pursuit of the Good Life.

Today, Stoicism remains one of the most impactful yet misunderstood philosophies. To many, it is erroneously synonymous with emotionlessness. In reality, Stoicism is a dynamic, action-oriented philosophy designed to provide practical tools for achieving self-mastery, perseverance, and wisdom. This powerful way of living is incredibly relevant, offering solutions for the challenges of modern life.

The term “Stoic” has been misrepresented in the English language. However, true Stoicism is a practical guide for living a fulfilling life, far from an esoteric academic exercise. Historically, many of the world’s greatest minds have embraced Stoicism, recognizing its profound value. Notable figures such as George Washington, Walt Whitman, Frederick the Great, Eugène Delacroix, Adam Smith, Immanuel Kant, Thomas Jefferson, Matthew Arnold, Ambrose Bierce, Theodore Roosevelt, William Alexander Percy, and Ralph Waldo Emerson either studied, quoted, or admired the Stoics for their timeless wisdom.

The ancient Stoics themselves were extraordinary individuals: Marcus Aurelius, the philosopher-emperor of Rome; Epictetus, a former slave who rose to become a revered lecturer and confidant of Emperor Hadrian; and Seneca, a celebrated playwright and adviser to Nero. Their teachings, preserved through the ages and shared in daily meditations, continue to inspire and provide practical guidance.

What profound insights did these great individuals discover in Stoicism that others might overlook? They found an abundance of strength, wisdom, and resilience essential for overcoming life’s adversities. By embracing Stoic principles, you too can gain the clarity and fortitude needed to navigate life’s complexities and thrive.

Dive deeper into the world of Stoicism and uncover the tools to transform your life. Experience the practical benefits of this ancient philosophy, from achieving emotional resilience to mastering life’s challenges with grace and wisdom. Stoicism is not just a philosophy; it’s a way of life that empowers you to live with purpose, integrity, and inner peace.

Start your journey with Stoicism today and discover how this timeless wisdom can help you lead a more meaningful and fulfilled life.

Stoicism began in the early 3rd century BCE in Athens, Greece. It was founded by Zeno of Citium, a merchant who, after surviving a shipwreck, turned to philosophy. Seeking knowledge, Zeno studied under various philosophers, including the Cynic Crates of Thebes, whose teachings influenced Stoicism's emphasis on virtue and simplicity.

Zeno of Citium: The Founder

Zeno established his school in the Stoa Poikile, or "Painted Porch," a colonnaded building in the Athenian Agora, from which the philosophy derives its name. His teachings focused on understanding nature, living in accordance with reason, and cultivating personal virtue.

Introduction

Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor renowned not only for his leadership but also for his contributions to philosophy. He is often regarded as one of the greatest Stoic philosophers, and his work, "Meditations," remains a timeless guide to personal virtue and ethical living.

Early Life

Marcus Aurelius was born on April 26, 121 CE, in Rome. He was born into a prominent family and was related by marriage to Emperor Hadrian. From a young age, he exhibited a keen interest in philosophy, particularly Stoicism.

Rise to Power

Marcus Aurelius was adopted by Emperor Antoninus Pius at Hadrian's request, positioning him as a future emperor. He was groomed for leadership, receiving a comprehensive education in literature, law, and philosophy. In 161 CE, Marcus Aurelius ascended to the throne as co-emperor with his adoptive brother Lucius Verus, although Verus died in 169 CE, leaving Marcus as the sole ruler.

Reign as Emperor

Marcus Aurelius ruled from 161 to 180 CE, a period marked by military conflict, including wars against Parthia and the Germanic tribes. Despite these challenges, he worked diligently to uphold justice, maintain stability, and govern with a sense of duty and responsibility.

Introduction

Lucius Annaeus Seneca, commonly known as Seneca the Younger, was a prominent Roman Stoic philosopher, statesman, dramatist, and advisor to Emperor Nero. His works on ethics, politics, and philosophy have had a lasting influence on Western thought, making him one of the most significant figures in ancient Stoicism.

Early Life

Seneca was born around 4 BCE in Corduba (modern-day Córdoba, Spain) into a wealthy and influential Roman family. His father, Seneca the Elder, was a well-known rhetorician and writer. Seneca moved to Rome at a young age, where he was educated in rhetoric and philosophy. He was particularly influenced by Stoic teachers like Attalus and Sotion.

Political Career and Exile

Seneca's political career began under the rule of Emperor Caligula. He served as a quaestor and later became a senator. However, his rise to prominence was not without challenges. In 41 CE, Emperor Claudius exiled Seneca to Corsica on charges of adultery with Julia Livilla, Claudius's niece. During his eight years in exile, Seneca continued to write and study Stoic philosophy.

Return to Rome and Role as Advisor

Seneca was recalled to Rome in 49 CE by Agrippina the Younger, the mother of Nero. He became Nero's tutor and advisor, playing a crucial role in the early years of Nero's reign. Seneca, alongside the praetorian prefect Burrus, helped stabilize the empire and govern effectively. However, as Nero's rule became increasingly tyrannical, Seneca's influence waned.