Known for his philosophical interests, Marcus Aurelius was one of the most respected emperors in Roman history. He was born into a wealthy and politically prominent family. Growing up, Marcus Aurelius was a dedicated student, learning Latin and Greek. But his greatest intellectual interest was Stoicism, a philosophy that emphasized fate, reason, and self-restraint. Discourses, written by a former slave and Stoic philosopher Epictetus, had a great deal of influence over Marcus Aurelius. Example famous quotes: You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength. - Marcus Aurelius - When you arise in the morning think of what a privilege it is to be alive, to think, to enjoy, to love ... - Marcus Aurelius - Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth. - Marcus Aurelius -