Alone with Oneself. Philosophy for Beginners with Comments and Illustrations

The philosophy of Stoicism, proclaiming resilience and courage, fearlessness and patience, disregard for death and striving for virtue, was the moral foundation of the ancient world. It guided the actions of people and established behavioral norms among the educated elite in Greece and Rome until the 3rd century AD.
Stoics believed: it is important to understand what we can change from what happens to us, and where a person is powerless. Where there is an opportunity to exercise will, to alter events to suit oneself without harming others, a person can certainly do so. But there is no point in fighting against the elements and the will of the gods. And where nothing depends on us, it is better to remain calm and not waste energy on trivialities. A true Stoic, managing his mind and feelings, can develop resilience to misfortunes and hardships. The most important thing is to learn to distinguish between circumstances that a person can influence and those which fate throws at them.
«Alone with Oneself» is the field notes of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, in which he reflects on the common good, human relationships, virtues, economics, and more. The idea of the transience of life, which depends on fate, is a recurring motif throughout the collection. According to Marcus Aurelius, in difficult times, only philosophy can provide solace and become the sole support in life.
«Alone with Oneself» by Marcus Aurelius is published in the translation of L.D. Urusov.