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Lives of the Stoics: The Art of Living from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius Audible Audiobook – Unabridged

Ryan Holiday (Author, Narrator), Stephen Hanselman (Author), Penguin Audio (Publisher)
4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars 2,825 ratings
Editors' pick Best Nonfiction
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Instant New York Times Advice & Business best seller, USA Today best seller, and Wall Street Journal number one best seller!

A New York Times Noteworthy Pick and a "stellar work" by Publishers Weekly

From the best-selling authors of The Daily Stoic comes an inspiring guide to the lives of the Stoics, and what the ancients can teach us about happiness, success, resilience, and virtue.

Nearly 2,300 years after a ruined merchant named Zeno first established a school on the Stoa Poikile of Athens, Stoicism has found a new audience among those who seek greatness, from athletes to politicians and everyone in between. It's no wonder; the philosophy and its embrace of self-mastery, virtue, and indifference to that which we cannot control is as urgent today as it was in the chaos of the Roman Empire.

In Lives of the Stoics, Holiday and Hanselman present the fascinating lives of the men and women who strove to live by the timeless Stoic virtues of Courage. Justice. Temperance. Wisdom. Organized in digestible, mini-biographies of all the well-known - and not so well-known - Stoics, this book vividly brings home what Stoicism was like for the people who loved it and lived it, dusting off powerful lessons to be learned from their struggles and successes.

More than a mere history book, every example, from Epictetus to Marcus Aurelius - slaves to emperors - is designed to help the listener apply philosophy in their own lives. Holiday and Hanselman unveil the core values and ideas that unite figures from Seneca to Cato to Cicero across the centuries. Among them are the idea that self-rule is the greatest empire, that character is fate; how Stoics benefit from preparing not only for success, but failure; and learn to love, not merely accept, the hand they are dealt in life. A treasure of valuable insights and stories, this book can be visited again and again by any listener in search of inspiration from the past.

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  1. Listening Length
    10 hours and 8 minutes
  2. Author
    Ryan Holiday, see all
  3. Narrator
    Ryan Holiday
  4. Audible release date
    September 29, 2020
  5. Language
    English
  6. Publisher
    Penguin Audio
  7. ASIN
    B085Q1TRHC
  8. Version
    Unabridged
  9. Program Type
    Audiobook
  10. See all details
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Product details

Listening Length 10 hours and 8 minutes
Author Ryan Holiday, Stephen Hanselman
Narrator Ryan Holiday
Whispersync for Voice Ready
Audible.com Release Date September 29, 2020
Publisher Penguin Audio
Program Type Audiobook
Version Unabridged
Language English
ASIN B085Q1TRHC
Best Sellers Rank #11,176 in Audible Books & Originals (See Top 100 in Audible Books & Originals)
#23 in Greek & Roman Philosophy (Audible Books & Originals)
#187 in Business Motivation & Self-Improvement (Audible Books & Originals)
#279 in Motivational Management & Leadership

Customer reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
2,825 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book a great introduction to Stoicism and its pillars. They describe it as an interesting read with engaging storytelling. The writing quality is described as clear and relatable, providing a clear explanation of Stoic viewpoints. Readers appreciate the historical accuracy and extensive collection of brief biographies. They consider the book worth purchasing and appreciate the inside cover map.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

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StoicismReadabilityStorytellingWriting qualityHistorical accuracyValue for moneyLookPacing
41 customers mention "Stoicism"41 positive0 negative

Customers find the book a great introduction to the pillars of Stoicism. They enjoy reading about the journeys of other stoics as the philosophy takes shape. The account of their lives is sprinkled with Stoic wisdom and written in a way that allows readers to learn from each life. The book does justice to the people behind the philosophy, describing how the earlier Stoics lived and providing insight into how great people were great. It provides timeless strategies and life lessons from key stoics, making it engaging and informative.

"...the standout features of Lives of the Stoics is its ability to bring ancient philosophy to life in a way that resonates with contemporary readers...." Read more

"...That Stoicism is really about. It is art of living and without action and real-life practice, it would be just dusty books in library shelf." Read more

"...But why write this book now? Stoicism remains an active, if inconspicuous, philosophy among many, including some in positions of political..." Read more

"Lives of the Stoics is a fantastic introduction to pillars of Stoicism and whetted my appetite to dig deeper and learn more...." Read more

36 customers mention "Readability"36 positive0 negative

Customers find the book engaging and informative. They describe it as a great read on Stoic principles, making it easy to understand. Readers praise the authors' writing style and appreciate the book being well-written.

"...Overall, Lives of the Stoics is an exceptional read that offers both a historical perspective and practical guidance...." Read more

"This is intriguing and interesting book tells not about Stoic principles of living a good life, but about people who did live more or less according..." Read more

"...In the end this is a very good book and very well written by two authors who are eminently qualified to write it...." Read more

"...Great book! Thank you." Read more

17 customers mention "Storytelling"13 positive4 negative

Customers enjoy the storytelling in the book. They find it an engaging exploration of ancient Stoic wisdom, providing a common-sense view of reality. The stories of the lives of the great Stoics are interesting and full of insight. Readers appreciate the book as educational, entertaining, and motivating.

"...The narrative is both engaging and informative, bringing to life the stories of key Stoic philosophers such as Zeno, Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus..." Read more

"This is intriguing and interesting book tells not about Stoic principles of living a good life, but about people who did live more or less according..." Read more

"...is a fantastic introduction to pillars of Stoicism and whetted my appetite to dig deeper and learn more...." Read more

"...Ultimately uninteresting, I don't recommend." Read more

15 customers mention "Writing quality"13 positive2 negative

Customers find the book well-written and easy to read. They appreciate the clear explanation of Stoic viewpoints and how they differed from other views.

"...Holiday and Hanselman’s writing is accessible and thought-provoking, providing a clear and relatable explanation of Stoic principles...." Read more

"...In the end this is a very good book and very well written by two authors who are eminently qualified to write it...." Read more

"...It's a treasure-trove of information, laid out well and easy to read. Each chapter is a specific historical figure...." Read more

"...“Lives of the Stoics”, is an extensively researched and brilliantly written undertaking of the philosophy of Stoicism...." Read more

12 customers mention "Historical accuracy"10 positive2 negative

Customers find the book a useful historical account of the lives of ancient Stoics. It contains an extensive collection of brief biographies, with each chapter focused on a specific historical figure. Readers appreciate the well-researched and brilliantly written content, including references to other sources.

"...Lives of the Stoics is an exceptional read that offers both a historical perspective and practical guidance...." Read more

"...Each chapter is a specific historical figure. You can read this start to finish, or go back and randomly flip to a chapter and re-read it...." Read more

"...“Lives of the Stoics” is a fantastic historical account of their lives, sprinkled with Stoic wisdom, and written in a way that allows you to grab..." Read more

"...All the known Stoics of the ancient world, from the best known to the most obscure, are compiled in this accessible, easy to read volume, in..." Read more

5 customers mention "Value for money"5 positive0 negative

Customers find the book offers good value for money. They appreciate the timeline and set of values, though some find them challenging to live by constantly.

"...It is a worthy set of values, to be sure. But not always easy to live by 24/7...." Read more

"...It's a great read and well worth your time and money." Read more

"...Did I enjoy the book? 50-50ish Was it worth the purchase? Not really…..." Read more

"...The introduction and the timeline alone were worth the purchase...." Read more

4 customers mention "Look"4 positive0 negative

Customers like the book's appearance. They love the inside cover map and find it more than a how-to book.

"...This book offers readers a profound and insightful look into the principles of Stoicism through the lens of its most influential figures...." Read more

"...the only thing was the cover was ripped in two places.... phenomenal look as well. Pretty big book & totally worth buying!" Read more

"Love the inside cover map..." Read more

"Not just a how-to book, but a painting of accomplishment...." Read more

4 customers mention "Pacing"4 positive0 negative

Customers find the book organized and easy to read. They appreciate the well-organized information and how it's compiled in an accessible volume.

"Well organized." Read more

"...It's a treasure-trove of information, laid out well and easy to read. Each chapter is a specific historical figure...." Read more

"...ancient world, from the best known to the most obscure, are compiled in this accessible, easy to read volume, in chronological order...." Read more

"Organized very well...." Read more

Extensively researched and brilliantly written
5 out of 5 stars
Extensively researched and brilliantly written
Ryan Holiday’s new book, “Lives of the Stoics”, is an extensively researched and brilliantly written undertaking of the philosophy of Stoicism. Beginning with the founder, Zeno, and continuing forward with overlapping biographies of not only the Stoic roster of heroes, but lesser known practitioners, and some you might not recognize at all. This book humanizes these legendary figures, pulling them into the present, and making you realize they dealt with the same temptations and challenges, and made the same mistakes that we do today. “Lives of the Stoics” is a fantastic historical account of their lives, sprinkled with Stoic wisdom, and written in a way that allows you to grab new nuggets of information each time you revisit it. If you’re a practicing Stoic, this book is a must have for your library to add to all the other Stoic offerings from Ryan Holiday. If you’re new to the philosophy, or just curious, this book will give you an extremely solid foundation in Stoicism.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Sonny N.
    5.0 out of 5 stars A Compelling Journey Through Stoic Philosophy and History
    Reviewed in the United States on August 8, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Lives of the Stoics: The Art of Living from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman is a captivating exploration of the lives and teachings of Stoic philosophers. This book offers readers a profound and insightful look into the principles of Stoicism through the lens of its most influential figures.

    The narrative is both engaging and informative, bringing to life the stories of key Stoic philosophers such as Zeno, Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius. Each chapter delves into the personal lives, struggles, and triumphs of these thinkers, highlighting how their philosophies shaped their actions and legacies. The authors skillfully intertwine historical context with philosophical insights, making the book both educational and entertaining.

    Holiday and Hanselman’s writing is accessible and thought-provoking, providing a clear and relatable explanation of Stoic principles. The book not only explores the theoretical aspects of Stoicism but also demonstrates how these ancient teachings can be applied to modern life. The practical wisdom gleaned from each philosopher's life is presented in a way that is both inspiring and actionable.

    One of the standout features of Lives of the Stoics is its ability to bring ancient philosophy to life in a way that resonates with contemporary readers. The authors’ deep understanding of Stoicism and their engaging storytelling make the book a valuable resource for anyone interested in personal development, resilience, and philosophical thought.

    Overall, Lives of the Stoics is an exceptional read that offers both a historical perspective and practical guidance. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in Stoicism, philosophy, or personal growth. The book provides a rich and rewarding exploration of how the wisdom of ancient Stoic philosophers can still offer valuable lessons for living a meaningful and fulfilling life. Highly recommended for its insightful and inspiring content!
    5 people found this helpful
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  • Tuomas R
    5.0 out of 5 stars Stoic lifes
    Reviewed in the United States on July 22, 2024
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    This is intriguing and interesting book tells not about Stoic principles of living a good life, but about people who did live more or less according to these principles. Not what they said or taught, but what they did and how they lived. That Stoicism is really about.
    It is art of living and without action and real-life practice, it would be just dusty books in library shelf.
    6 people found this helpful
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  • Gary Moreau, Author
    4.0 out of 5 stars Courage, Temperance, Justice, Wisdom
    Reviewed in the United States on September 30, 2020
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    This book is a history of Stoicism. More accurately it is a compilation of mini-biographies of the most famous Stoics from Zeno (334 BCE – 262 BCE) to Marcus Aurelius (121 AD - 180 AD), the Platonian philosopher king, as well as Cicero, Cato the Younger, and Porcia Cato the Iron Woman, among others.

    Stoicism is built around four virtues: “Courage, Temperance, Justice, [and] Wisdom.” And that’s pretty much it. There are no rituals, no sacred text, and no organized institution of worship.

    There were recognized “leaders”, Zeno being the first, but they didn’t have offices or official duties, as Stoics at least. They were teachers, authors, politicians, and generals. Aurelius even became Emperor.

    They were considered philosophers, but few resembled philosophers as most of us think of that moniker today. The word philosophy has had an extremely fluid and often imprecise etymology over the centuries. The first definition offered by Webster’s today is “all learning exclusive of technical precepts and practical arts.” At the time of Newton, however, science and philosophy were used synonymously. During the early days of Stoicism, “Zeno divided the curriculum of Stoicism into three parts: physics, ethics, and logic.”

    The meaning of stoicism has changed as well. “The word ‘stoic’ in English [today] means the unemotional endurance of pain.” To the Stoics, however, Stoic was all about the active pursuit of virtue and justice. It was a pro-active quality, not a defense mechanism.

    There was/is an emphasis on listening. “Zeno said that we were given two ears and one mouth for a reason…” And it was forward looking. We die the day we are born in the sense that the time already past in our lives is not something we can do anything about. We can only try harder, pursuing to improve that which we can control and accepting that which we can’t. Don’t worry about the rules, just do it, to adopt a modern commercial tag line.

    The other distinguishing characteristic of Stoicism is the emphasis on the common good, not self-interest. Many Stoics went into politics out of a sense of obligation, not a grab for power and wealth.

    Stoicism is a way to live that no Stoic has ever fully achieved, however, although some of the Stoics described clearly led virtuous lives by any standard. But not perfect.

    Many were born into wealth and privilege. Nearly all accepted the institution of slavery (one of the most famous Stoics had been a slave) and the brutality of war. But, as the authors conclude, “Most of all, the Stoics taught us by the fact that they tried.”

    I was often reminded of Confucius (551 BCE – 479 BCE) throughout the book and he is referenced a few times. Confucius lived during a tumultuous time in the history of China. Neighboring fiefdoms were at constant war and Confucius was ultimately called upon to help sort it all out.

    He concluded that peace could never be fully maintained by the armed agents of the state (i.e. the police or the military). As soon as that authority leaves, as lethally as it may be armed, the mayhem would return. He understood, quite correctly, that self-restraint is the only weapon against constant bedlam and that self-restraint would only take hold if there was a value system of peace and cooperation shared by all. And for him that value system turned on the internalization of values and behaviors built on an inviolate sense of obligation to others. (Pretty Stoic, I think.)

    It is a worthy set of values, to be sure. But not always easy to live by 24/7. There are contradictions in every philosophy and belief system. A devout Stoic, Rusticus had a Christian who did no more than follow his faith put to death. Not because he found him deserving – he didn’t - but because that was the law of Rome at the time. And Seneca, one of history’s most famous Stoics, was a tutor and advisor to Nero, perhaps the most deranged and ruthless leader of all time.

    But why write this book now? Stoicism remains an active, if inconspicuous, philosophy among many, including some in positions of political power.

    Well, there is little possible debate that America today is starting to look a lot like Rome before its collapse. Greed, corruption, and the pursuit of self-interest at the expense of the common good are in abundant supply. And these are, in fact, the antithesis of the virtue and justice that Stoicism stands for. If only we had three ears and four eyes and could look away from our technology for just a moment we’d see it.

    In the end this is a very good book and very well written by two authors who are eminently qualified to write it. I didn’t give it a 5 only because that didn’t seem like the Stoic thing to do. Just kidding. I would have liked to see more philosophical exploration of why the four virtues are the right ones, but that is admittedly a failure of my own expectation, not the authors’ promise, which they deliver fully on.

    Read it. You will learn much from the lives portrayed.
    71 people found this helpful
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  • Paul A. Mackey
    5.0 out of 5 stars Valuable Overview of Stoic Philosophers
    Reviewed in the United States on July 8, 2024
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    Lives of the Stoics is a fantastic introduction to pillars of Stoicism and whetted my appetite to dig deeper and learn more. Stoicism is a practical philosophy that is as relevant today as it was in ancient times.
    3 people found this helpful
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  • Vince Vawter
    5.0 out of 5 stars Love the inside cover map
    Reviewed in the United States on August 10, 2024
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    Well organized.
    One person found this helpful
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  • A review person
    5.0 out of 5 stars Entertaining read
    Reviewed in the United States on December 19, 2023
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    I always thought that Stoics are a pretty boring lot of folks but are reading this book, I discovered that I was mistaken.

    Great book!

    Thank you.
    4 people found this helpful
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  • Chris Plemmons
    5.0 out of 5 stars Highly Recommend
    Reviewed in the United States on October 25, 2023
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    This is a great history and information about the original and influencers of Stoicism. I really enjoyed reading and studying this book. It's a treasure-trove of information, laid out well and easy to read. Each chapter is a specific historical figure. You can read this start to finish, or go back and randomly flip to a chapter and re-read it. This is a book I go back to over and over each year. Highly recommend if you have any interest in the Stoics at all.
    14 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

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  • Book Lover
    5.0 out of 5 stars Best of the Stoics
    Reviewed in Canada on June 6, 2024
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    A great book to read about the less common Stoics.
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  • Jose Guadalupe
    5.0 out of 5 stars Muy buen libro
    Reviewed in Mexico on March 21, 2023
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    Me Encanto, llego en excelente estado
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  • Thanius Scoralick Sarchis
    5.0 out of 5 stars The way of stoicism
    Reviewed in Brazil on December 3, 2021
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    Through the origins and the history of the stoics, we can better understand the "whys" and "hows" of the filosophy.
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  • JB
    3.0 out of 5 stars Interesting
    Reviewed in Spain on March 31, 2024
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    An interesting book which reviews the lives and deeds of ancient stoics, it is good to remember how all started, and keep in mind the basis of stoicism.
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  • ?
    5.0 out of 5 stars Interesting
    Reviewed in Germany on April 24, 2023
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    Thought provoking, it leaves the best for last. It is easy to find yourself wishing to be like these great names...just to realize it is a life long journey, very much worth the time
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