Alone with Oneself. Reflections: A Unique Technology with the Effect of Cropped Edges

There has never been a personality like the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius in the history of human civilization, nor is one foreseen. No political system or modern world order is equipped for the emergence of a ruler like Marcus Aurelius Antoninus. So who was he after all? A sovereign? A military commander? A philosopher? Lacking a warlike nature, Marcus Aurelius had to spend his entire life on military campaigns. He wrote his «Reflections» in a campaign tent, tormented by a severe illness. This book is also known as «Meditations» (According to his doctor, the famous Galen, the last words of the emperor were: «It seems that today I will be alone with myself»). Self-discipline, composure, and courage not only helped Marcus Aurelius cope with disappointment in life and painful loneliness but also allowed him to give a finished form to Stoic teachings and become one of the most influential philosophers of Ancient Rome. However, there have been many philosophers on the throne in history, and even more military commanders. Those whom the people truly loved ruled; one can even find examples of rulers who were simultaneously philosophers, military leaders, and even «fathers of the homeland». But there has never been anyone who consistently, under all circumstances, upheld the commitments of a philosopher and a human until the end. No one, except for Marcus Aurelius...