It’s one of the most incredible stories in all of history.
A young boy, out of nowhere, is chosen to be the emperor of most of the known world.
Hadrian, without an heir, chose Marcus Aurelius to succeed him. But he knew that no one was born ready for the job, so he arranged for Marcus’s education. He would adopt Antoninus Pius, then 51 years old, who would in turn adopt Marcus Aurelius. One would hold the other’s place, while he trained and tutored him. The greatest philosophers in Rome were assigned to teach him too too: Junius Rusticus, Cornelius Fronto, Claudius Severus and Herodes Atticus, all threw themselves into the almost inhuman task of preparing someone for absolute power.
It’s a parable for life, really. The gods, fate, someone chooses something for us, calls us to something. Will we answer? Will we step up? Will we achieve the greatness within us?
Marcus Aurelius did. Absolute power not only didn’t corrupt, it made him better. We marvel at him centuries later—this man who thought he would not be remembered, that posthumous fame was worthless—stands today more famous than ever. A hero to millions.
And now, that parable has been illustrated and told for all ages. Our newest release at Daily Stoic, written by Ryan Holiday in the depths of the pandemic (not unlike the one Marcus ruled through), this new beautifully-crafted book is available for preorder now.
This 100-page book is produced entirely by Daily Stoic and printed here in the United States. Each page features an illustration by the prolific illustrator Victor Juhasz.
As a special bonus, if you order this book before March 9th, 2021, you’ll get a FREE audiobook version as well. Simply check out through our website here, and you’ll automatically get the free book.
The timeless tale is told for all ages and makes a great gift.
P.S. This was originally sent on February 16, 2021. Sign up today for the Daily Stoic’s email and get our popular free 7-day course on Stoicism.
