Related Philosophies

Related philosophies (that is, philosophies related to Plato, Neoplatonism, and Hermetism) include primarily those of the Stoics. Also in this section will be found works by the Emperor Julian, and the Life of Apollonius of Tyana, which, although not strictly philosophy, is in regards to the life of an eminent philosopher.

For all Neoplatonic texts, go here.

Ancient Works

The Basic Works of Aristotle

Aristotle is as important a figure to philosophy as Plato, and both should be read to gain a full appreciation for broad subject of Greek philosophy. The Basic Works of Aristotle is the most accessible collection of Aristotle's most important works (although not all his works). Even so, this book is over 1500 pages--so it should provide sufficient study material for any aspiring student. This book is a very large file, about 80 MB in size.

The Meditations of Aurelius

The Meditations of Aurelius, by Emperor Marcus Aurelius (translated by George Long) stand as the pinnacle of Stoic philosophy. Included in this volume is a lengthy essay on the life and philosophy of Aurelius, followed by his famous work, "Meditations" (here called the "Thoughts of Aurelius").

The Works of Epictetus

The Works of Epictetus, as translated by Thomas Higginson, gives us a complete collection of this Stoic philosophers discourses, as written by his pupil Arrian. Like Aurelius's "Meditations", the works of Epictetus are a must read for anyone interested in Stoicism.

Ocellus Lucanus - On the Nature of the Universe

An early scientific treatise speculating on the nature of the cosmos. Ocellus Lucanus was a Pythagorean, and his view of the grand cosmological scheme is important to understanding the view held by later Neoplatonists.

Cicero - On the Nature of the Gods

The Roman philosopher and statesman Cicero wrote an excellent book on the nature of the gods that is of considerable importance to Platonic and Neoplatonic studies.

Sallustius - On Gods and the World

The late Hellenistic philosopher, Sallustius, was commissioned by Emperor Julianus to write a short introduction to Iamblichaean Neoplatonism on the nature of gods and the cosmos, which could be easily understood by "the common man". Presented here is that essay.

The Life of Apollonius of Tyana, Volume 1

The Life of Apollonius of Tyana, Volume 1, by Philostratus (translated by F. C. Conybeare) gives us the most comprehensive biography of this great traveling philosopher and holy man that we have today. The first volume covers Books I - V.

The Life of Apollonius of Tyana, Volume 2

The Life of Apollonius of Tyana, Volume 2, is the second volume of Philostratus' The Life of Apollonius of Tyana, Volume 1, and covers books VI - VIII.

The Works of Emperor Julian, Volume 1

The Works of Emperor Julian Volume 1, translated by Wilmer Cave Wright, includes various orations by Emperor Julian, as well as a number of hymns.

The Works of Emperor Julian, Volume 2

The Works of Emperor Julian Volume 2, includes additional orations by the Emperor, some letters, and fragments of letters. Included also is his exceptionally letter "The Caesars", a political satire.

The Works of Emperor Julian, Volume 3

The Works of Emperor Julian Volume 3, includes many additional letters and fragments of letters by Emperor Julian, and most important of all, his most famous (or perhaps most infamous) work "Against the Galileans".

Modern Commentaries

From Aristotle to Plotinus

From Aristotle to Plotinus is a comprehensive study of the most significant philosophers of antiquity from the time of Aristotle, through the development of Stoicism and Epicureanism, to the time of Plotinus and Neoplatonism. It is a must read for those wishing to read a good introductory overview on Greek philosophy after Plato.

The Fragments of Zeno and Cleanthes

The Fragments of Zeno and Cleanthes, by A. C. Pearson, is a dissertation which contains various fragments by Zeno, the "Grandfather" of Stoic philosophy. However, much of the text is in Greek or Latin.

Stoicism

Stoicism, by W. W. Capes, is a comprehensive overview of Stoic philosophy, and includes information on Seneca, Epictetus, Emperor Aurelius, and their essential doctrine and creed.

Stoics, Epicureans, and Sceptics

Stoics, Epicureans, and Sceptics, by Dr. E. Zeller, is another exceptional book on Stoicism. It also includes sections on Epicureans and the Skeptic philosophers as well.

Julian the Apostate

Julian the Apostate, by Mereshovski, is a detailed biography of the last pagan Emperor of the Roman Empire. Also includes much about his philosophy.