Famous quote by Marcus Aurelius

"Death is a release from the impressions of the senses, and from desires that make us their puppets, and from the vagaries of the mind, and from the hard service of the flesh"

About this Quote

Marcus Aurelius, the Stoic theorist and Roman Emperor, in this quote, provides death as a freedom from numerous burdens that entangle human presence. Comprehending this point of view requires diving into the aspects he mentions: the senses, desires, the mind, and the body.

First of all, "release from the impressions of the senses" suggests that death frees us from the sensory experiences that typically cloud judgment and impede real perception. In Stoic approach, the senses can produce distorted impressions, leading individuals astray from logical thought. By releasing us from these impressions, death possibly offers clearness that avoids us in life.

Second of all, death as a release from "desires that make us their puppets" reflects a Stoic preoccupation with the liberating power of factor over untempered desires. Desires are frequently seen as external forces that oppress the person, compromising autonomy and rationality. In life, desires can lead to a loss of control, as people become puppets driven by their own needs. Death, in contrast, is seen as an emancipation from these controlling forces.

Thirdly, the "vagaries of the mind" can be interpreted as the unpredictable and often disorderly nature of human idea, which can lead individuals far from equanimity. Stoics value a disciplined mind that complies with reasonable principles. Thus, release from the mind's vagaries highlights freedom from internal mayhem and psychological disruptions that life undoubtedly brings.

Lastly, "the tough service of the flesh" describes the physical demands and suffering related to preserving the body. Life's physicality requires navigating illness, pain, and the unavoidable decline of the body, all of which problem the person. Death, for that reason, is viewed as freedom from these corporeal battles.

In sum, this quote encapsulates a common Stoic contemplation of death, not as an end however rather as a transformative release from life's entanglements, providing a state of peace devoid of the disruptions of mortal existence. Marcus Aurelius motivates seeing death not with fear, however as a final liberty constant with Stoic virtue and serenity.

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About the Author

Marcus Aurelius This quote is written / told by Marcus Aurelius between April 26, 121 and March 17, 180. He was a famous Soldier from Rome. The author also have 68 other quotes.
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