Latest / Marcus Aurelius: Rome's Philosopher King — Fexingo History
Marcus Aurelius and the Stoic Emperor's Succession Dilemma
In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore one of the most controversial decisions of Marcus Aurelius's reign: his choice of successor. Despite being a model Stoic philosopher-king, Marcus broke with the adoptive succession system of his predecessors by elevating his biological son Commodus to the throne. We examine the political pressures, family dynamics, and historical context behind this fateful choice. Drawing on sources like Cassius Dio, Herodian, and the Historia Augusta, we consider whether Marcus had viable alternatives, the role of the Antonine Plague in shaping his decision, and…
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