Alone with Oneself

In the literary works of medieval Byzantium, Emperor Marcus Aurelius is depicted as a profoundly erudite sage, well-versed in a multitude of disciplines, and a towering figure of righteousness, seemingly just a step away from embracing the Christian faith. This portrayal underscores his intellectual prowess and moral impeccability, presenting him as an almost perfect candidate for conversion to Christianity.
In stark contrast, Renaissance Europe revered Marcus Aurelius as the epitome of the ideal ruler-humanist. His wisdom and prudence in governing the state, rooted in comprehensive education and a humane worldview, elevated him to the status of a paragon of leadership, deeply concerned with the well-being of his subjects.

These two contrasting portrayals of Marcus Aurelius reflect the distinct values and perspectives of their respective eras. Medieval Byzantium placed a paramount emphasis on religious faith and moral purity, while Renaissance Europe extolled the virtues of intellect, education, and a humanistic approach to governance.