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: : I have started a cl on spiritual autobiographies: those which include the subject/author's quest for meaning and, when that leads to a sense that there is a personal God, for relationship as well. : It was noted that there are many more autobiographies from the 17th century on, as modern individualism developed. So the question arises: what is premodern individualism? To what extent are the Meditations "modern" in their materialism and tragic melancholy? To what extent are they different? : I am working on the idea that individualism increases in popularity as a society breaks down. The communal idea is essentially optimistic: "together, look what we can accomplish!" The individualist is pessimistic: "there is no effective 'we.' The best I can do is be true to myself.' " If so, then there are more parallels between Aurelius' time and our own than their are contrasts. : I will be reporting my findings to our cl (at Boston University) on Thursday, and would appreciate comments from those who know Aurelius better than I. : Steve Harvester

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Before we create we must understand. Marcus Aurelius, Marcus Aurelius, Marcus Aurelius, Marcus Aurelius, The Meditations, The Meditations, Marcus Aurelius, The Meditations, Marcus Aurelius, Marcus Aurelius, , , Marcus Aurelius, Marcus Aurelius, The Meditations