Marius the Epicurean, Volume 2


Read by DrPGould

(3.8 stars; 6 reviews)

The conclusion of Pater's historico-philosophical novel about a young Roman nobleman's search for purpose and meaning. Set in the time of Caesar Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, the book traces its title character's encounters with the stoicism of Aurelius, Eastern philosophical and religious movements, and Christianity as they reacted with Marius's own innate Epicureanism.

In exploring these issues, Pater focuses on themes of adult development, as he notes the impact of Marius's childhood experiences as they inform his adult thinking; the value of the aesthetic life (a favorite idea of Pater's); and the appeal of religion.

In addition, the work is stylistically distinct for its attempt to use classical historical and philosophical texts
to support and enrich a fictional narrative.

(DrPGould with help from Wikipedia) (5 hr 20 min)

Chapters

Chapter 15 Stoicism at Court 16:16 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 16 Second Thoughts 22:26 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 17 Beata Urbs 17:41 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 18 "The Ceremony of the Dart" 24:56 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 19 The Will as Vision 23:47 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 20 Two Curious Houses Pt. 1 Guests 24:59 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 21 TwoCurious Houses Pt. 2 The Church in Cecilia's House 24:58 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 22 "The Minor Peace of the Church" 27:11 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 23 Divine Service 18:46 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 24 A Conversation not Imaginary 44:21 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 25 Sunt Lacrimae Rerum 18:58 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 26 The Martyrs 14:33 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 27 The Triumph of Marcus Aurelius 16:08 Read by DrPGould
Chapter 28 Anima Naturaliter Christiana 25:06 Read by DrPGould